Reflecting on 2025: A Year of Healing and Community with Spoken Outdoors
Everyone at Spoken Outdoors feels deeply grateful and proud of our progress in supporting America’s Protectors—law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS workers, and veterans. Based in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, our mission is to promote healing, build confidence, and foster community through transformative outdoor experiences. This year, we expanded our reach, deepened our impact, and strengthened our community through a series of healing and empowering events in nature.
Expanding Our Reach
In 2025, we hosted a variety of events designed to support the mental and emotional well-being of our participants. Our one-day Healing Fishing Events in Montana and Idaho provided therapeutic fly-fishing sessions for thirty-four (34) first responders and veterans. These activities supported mindfulness, alleviated stress, and offered opportunities for reflection, enabling participants to reconnect with themselves and benefit from the restorative effects of nature, and just have fun.
As one first responder counseling lead shared, “Overall, the experience was wonderful, beautiful, and fun. Our team got to laugh and bond while floating down beautiful scenery. There was no pressure.”
Deepening Our Impact
Our multi-day river trip on the Deschutes River in Maupin, Oregon, was another highlight of the year. Over the course of a three-day drift boat trip, six first responders had the opportunity to spend time away from their routine activities. The river setting and group experiences were associated with lower reported stress levels and an increased sense of purpose.
Overall, our river programs served forty (40) participants with twenty-one boats over 13 days, marking a significant increase in our outreach and impact.
Strengthening Our Community
One of the most heartbreaking events of the year was the Canfield Event in Kootenai County, Idaho. After two firefighters tragically lost their lives and injuries to another, we provided over 400 meals to firehouses and the hospital serving first responders and their families. This initiative allowed crews to remain together during this challenging time, offering interaction and support. The community’s involvement highlighted the assistance offered to local firefighters, reinforcing our community bonds.
Looking Ahead
As we move into 2026, we are committed to increasing our participant capacity by 25% and continuing to honor and support our Protectors through events like the Shield & Flame Memorial. We are excited about the future and the opportunities it holds for furthering our mission.
Thank You
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our donors, volunteers, board members, and community partners. Your support fuels every adventure and every moment of healing. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of those who serve and protect us.
Support Our Mission
Your generous donations make it possible for us to continue providing these vital programs. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps offer the healing and support our First Responders need. Please consider donating today to help us expand our reach and deepen our impact. Visit our website at spokenoutdoors.org or contact us at president@spokenoutdoors.org for more information.