Welcome to the
New York Outdoor Rx Coalition
GETTING VETERANS
OUTDOORS
Information & resources to help 1M+ New York based service members, veterans, and their families access parks & public lands and experience the healing benefits of nature.
The New York Outdoor Rx Coalition is a collective of public & private organizations working together to improve outdoor access for 1M+ New York based service members, veterans, and their families.
With 240+ parks & accessible lands across 4.5 million acres in the state, New York offers a rich array of options for outdoor recreation. Natural environments provide important benefits for physical, mental, and emotional health & well-being.
How can we help you?
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I'm a Provider
Information about why and how referring your military-connected clients to outdoor programs enhances their well-being and improves your outcomes.
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I'm a Veteran
Plan, prepare and enjoy time outdoors to reduce anxiety, increase well-being & happiness, and connect with others who have shared experiences.
Our veterans need us
— and the outdoors
New York State is home to 1M+ service members, veterans, and their families.
According to a NY Health Foundation study, nearly half of all service members returning to civilian life in New York return with psychological injuries and/or substance use issues. Yet only one-third ever seek treatment.
Recent research shows promise that outdoor recreational activities support veterans’ mental health while circumventing the stigma many veterans face in initiating treatment.
Outdoor recreation:
Benefits veterans’ emotional well-being
Complements traditional mental health services & support
Increases positive attitudes toward seeking mental health support
OUTDOOR RX
MISSION
The coalition facilitates collaboration among public & private partners to improve access to the healing power of nature for all New York military-connected communities.
Our goals:
Raise awareness of outdoor recreation and therapeutic programs
Identify and mitigate barriers to access
Ensure implementation of the Outdoor Rx Act
The coalition currently has:
156 unique member organizations
Representation in all 9 NYS Department of Environmental Conservation regions
Members in 54 of NYS’s 62 counties
If you’re a service provider, join the coalition & help us improve
access to the outdoors for veterans & their families
Membership is free & new members are accepted on an ongoing basis.
The primary requirement is that you agree to be a representative of your organization & use your business domain email address.
NATURE HEALS
From Long Island and New York City up the Hudson Valley to the Catskills & Adirondacks and beyond, the Empire State offers a wealth of opportunities to get into the great outdoors and experience transformative change.
