Finding Healing on the Trail

In the serene backdrop of trail running communities across America, a remarkable organization is making profound changes in the lives of veterans and their families. Band of Runners, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has created a unique approach to supporting our nation's heroes through the therapeutic power of trail running and outdoor community building.

Led by Experience and Heart

The organization was founded by Liza Howard, an accomplished ultra-runner and dedicated advocate for veterans' well-being. Coming from a military family herself, with a father, grandfathers, brother-in-law, uncles, aunts, and cousins who served, Howard understands the unique challenges faced by military families. "Connecting veterans and their families to the wonderful trail running community and sharing the joy that can be found on the trails is one way for me to express my gratitude for our veterans' service and their families' sacrifices," says Howard. "It's a way to make my running useful and to be useful myself." As a multiple-time Leadville Trail 100 finisher and respected coach, Howard brings both athletic expertise and deep personal connection to the organization's mission.

A Mission of Support and Connection

At its core, Band of Runners operates with a simple yet powerful mission: sharing the physical and psychological benefits of trail running with veterans and their surviving family members. This mission comes to life through their comprehensive programs that combine expert mentorship, practical support, and community engagement.

Trail Camp: Where Transformation Happens

The organization's flagship program, Trail Camp, exemplifies their holistic approach to veteran support. During these intensive four-day experiences, participants receive instruction from elite trail runners who share their expertise in:

• Technical trail running and hill training
• Running form and strength training
• Nutrition and hydration strategies
• First aid and blister care
• Night running techniques

But Trail Camp is more than just running instruction – it's about building connections around campfires, sharing stories, and fostering lasting relationships within the trail running community.

Expert Mentorship That Makes a Difference

What sets Band of Runners apart is their exceptional mentorship team. These mentors include:

• Accomplished ultra-runners
• Experienced race directors
• Dedicated coaches from across the United States

Many, like Ryan Yedlinsky, a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel with five combat tours, bring both military experience and trail running expertise to their roles. Others, like Rob VanHouten, understand firsthand the impact military service can have on families and are passionate about creating supportive communities for veterans and their loved ones.

Year-Round Support and Community

The organization's impact extends beyond organized events through their year-round support system. They provide:

• Training support for races of all distances
• Volunteering opportunities at running events
• Active community engagement and ongoing encouragement
• Race sponsorship and support
• Mentoring for both new and experienced runners

A Natural Partnership

This is why RecPak is proud to announce our partnership with Band of Runners. Our missions align naturally – both organizations believe in the transformative power of outdoor experiences and the importance of building strong, supportive communities. By joining forces with Band of Runners, RecPak can help expand the reach of their vital programs while ensuring participants have access to reliable, high-quality gear for their outdoor adventures.

Moving Forward Together

The synergy between our organizations goes beyond just equipment support. We share a commitment to fostering connection and community through outdoor activities, and we believe that our partnership will help more veterans discover the healing power of trail running and nature. Together, we're working to create more opportunities for veterans and their families to experience the profound benefits of outdoor community and adventure.

To learn more about Band of Runners and their programs, visit their website or follow them on Instagram. Join us in supporting this remarkable organization as they continue to change lives one trail at a time.