Veteran Peer Support Groups
Find connection and camaraderie again through peer support for veterans.
After their service, many veterans feel they’ve lost a sense of camaraderie that they once enjoyed in the military. Adjusting to the new normal of civilian life can be a challenge, especially without support from peers — fellow veterans. That is why we offer peer-led veteran support groups and events across the country.
Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) Peer Support Groups are small, warrior-led support groups that connect veterans with each other in their communities. Through shared experiences, discussing personal challenges, and supporting one another, these veteran support groups can provide connection, camaraderie, and new solutions to challenges.
On average, WWP Peer Support Groups are made up of about 10-15 warriors and can be coed, all-male, or all-female. Group leaders help to facilitate a topic-based discussion while providing a safe place for warriors to support one another through their unique journeys. Connect with fellow veterans in your area through a WWP Peer Support Group.
Benefits
- Find peer support and encouragement from warriors like you
- Virtual and in-person event options
- Make new friends in your local community
- Share experiences and challenges in a safe, judgment-free environment
- Help begin your individual journey at WWP with free programs and services
Interested in attending a group in your area?
Contact the WWP Resource Center by email or call 888.WWP.ALUM (997.2586) Monday through Friday from 9 am to 9 pm EST.
WWP Peer Support Group Leader Success Story
Hear about WWP Peer Support Groups from a warrior.
WWP Peer Support Groups are small, veteran support groups led by fellow warriors. Groups get together to connect with peers, discuss personal challenges, and provide support for one another. Group meetings normally only last one to two hours and can be in-person or virtual.
Warriors who are registered with WWP are eligible to participate in WWP Peer Support Groups. If you are not registered or are unsure if you qualify to participate in WWP programs, visit the registration page for more information.
If you are not currently registered with WWP, please visit the registration page for details about who is eligible to register with WWP and how to get started. WWP supports veterans and service members who incurred a physical or mental injury, illness, or wound while serving in the military on or after September 11, 2001. You may also be eligible for the program if you are the family member or caregiver of a wounded warrior.
WWP Peer Support Groups is one of a variety of veteran programs and services WWP offers to help you take the steps that are right for you, including programs for physical and mental wellness, career transition, and support in obtaining disabled veterans benefits from Veterans Affairs (VA).
WWP Peer Support Groups are led by warriors who have been actively participating in WWP programs and services and have demonstrated the ability to thrive in their environment. These volunteers are selected by WWP teammates and are trained to help facilitate conversation and camaraderie during these group meetings.
WWP Peer Support Groups can differ based on the region of the United States that you live in. We have in-person, virtual groups, and hybrid groups (both in-person and online). Most groups are co-ed, but women-only groups are available in some areas.
No. WWP Peer Support Groups are not clinical in nature and there are no therapists or clinicians in attendance. These are veteran support groups, led by veterans. There is no requirement to speak or share during group meetings — the group is there to support you whether you share or not.
WWP Peer Support Groups meetings led by registered warriors are held monthly to provide support through shared experiences and discuss personal challenges. Warrior-led group events are held throughout the year. They are hosted by warrior volunteers who have chosen to live the WWP logo and provide opportunities for alumni to connect in a smaller setting.
Attending a Peer Support Group can help you feel better in any number of ways, such as:
- Meeting new friends or connecting to others who understand you.
- Knowing you’re never alone — that others are going through something similar.
- Learning and sharing tips for day-to-day challenges
- Discovering helpful new perspectives from others
- Help begin your individual journey at WWP with free programs and services.
There are several different ways to find and attend a WWP Peer Support Group. The Post, our weekly emailed newsletter can connect you to peer support groups and events. To find a peer support group, simply click on “Full Event Schedule” within the e-newsletter. From the event schedule page, select “Peer Support Groups,” and then search by your local or regional area to register. As always, the WWP Resource Center is here to help you also connect you with a Peer Support Group — just call 888.WWP.ALUM (997.2586).
WWP Peer Support Groups offers a lot of opportunities that you can attend virtually. The Post, our weekly e-newsletter has a full list of virtual events.
News And Articles About Veterans Like You
The Power of Connection: How a Simple Hug Saved a Veteran’s Life
Deron Santiny didn’t know it at the time, but a friendly hug he offered ended up saving a life. Deron is an Army veteran who was injured in Iraq. He is peer support group leader for Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) and serves as an academic advisor for veterans at the University of Louisiana Lafayette.
Warrior to Peers: You Don’t Have to Do Mental Wellness Alone
Army veteran Sean Sanders was used to leading teams and showing strength and courage daily. But when Sean retired from the Army in 2015, after 22 years of service, he realized something else had come back with him: PTSD.
Pair of Marines Reconnect Through Wounded Warrior Project and Knock Down Mental Health Barriers
Marine veterans Nick Bennett and Dan Miller held a box of shrapnel in their hands. It’s not the sort of thing that helps most people bond. This is the story of how the pieces that tore them apart in combat, later brought two warriors together.