Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the Shields & Stripes FAQs page!
Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions about our program, application process, ways to get invovled and the support we provide to veterans and first responders.

Applicants

What is the Shields & Stripes program?
Shields & Stripes is a registered 501c3 nationwide non-profit organization dedicated to restoring the lives of Veterans and first responders. Founded in North Carolina in 2021 by Air Force Pararescuemen Veteran Steve Nisbet and Air Force Veteran Occupational Therapist Dr. Jennifer Byrne.

The Shields & Stripes program is designed to restore the lives of our nation’s Veterans and First Responders through a team-based, holistic approach to healing with our 3-week in-person and 9-week telehealth program. Therapies and modalities include individual and group mental health, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition, strength and conditioning, yoga, mentor support with our athlete advocates, and peer support.

When do programs occur?

Subscribe to our email newsletter to be notified of upcoming programs and application windows or check our website for updates. Application Page

Where is Shields & Stripes located?

The Shields & Stripes program is currently hosted at Exos Human Performance facility in Phoenix, AZ and Gulf Breeze, FL.

Do I have to be located in Florida or Arizona to receive assistance from Shields & Stripes?

No, our services are available to First Responders and Veterans nationwide.

When do you accept applications?

Application windows open a few months prior to the scheduled program dates. Subscribe to our email newsletter to be notified of upcoming programs and application windows or check our website for updates.

What happens after I submit my application?

Your application is added to the queue and reviewed by our clinical team. You will be contacted by a Shields & Stripes team member.

Who does the Shields & Stripes program serve?

Our program serves American Veterans and First Responders including but not limited to: active, guard, reserve, retired, medically separated/medically retired etc.. We do not require a formal mental health diagnosis such as PTSD or major depression. If you have experienced a trauma that negatively impacts your daily life, you should consider applying to us. This trauma does not need to be combat or work-related; childhood trauma, and military-sexual trauma are absolutely considered.

Our program accepts applications from Veterans from all branches of the military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard and First Responders including firefighters, police officers, paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs) , corrections officers and dispatchers. If you consider yourself a “first-responder” and are not listed, please reach out to us and ask if you qualify.

If I am not accepted due to capacity limitations, should I reapply for future programs?

If you are not accepted because we have already filled the program (we review applications in the order they are received), then you have the option for us to maintain your application in our queue for the next program. You would then be considered for the next program without having to reapply and before we open the application window for new applicants.

What is the time commitment required if I am accepted for a Shields & Stripes program?

The in-person phase of the program is 21 days on-site.

This is followed by a second phase of Telehealth of approximately 9 weeks. This requires about 2 hours per week. Athletes must complete no less than 80% of telehealth appointments. 

 

What expenses am I responsible for related to my treatment from Shields & Stripes?

The Shields & Stripes program is generously funded by donations and this allows travel, lodging, meals and comprehensive treatments to be free of cost to you. You may be responsible for extracurriculars, weekend meals, shopping, or any activity not formally planned by Shields & Stripes.

Does Shields & Stripes have any specific eligibility criteria for receiving assistance?

Selection of our athletes is complex and takes many factors into account, however we look for individuals who:
1) Can commit to the entire 3-month program requirements
2) Are highly motivated and ready to make a life-long change
3) Have a strong support network
4) Showcase emotional intelligence and the ability to work well within a group
5) Can refrain from alcohol or other substances for 3-months.
This is not an all inclusive list, rather a snapshot of some major traits our team looks for

Can I bring my spouse/family with me?

No. This decision is crucial to your success. Our program is designed so athletes can focus on nothing other than themselves during our 3-week in-person portion of our program. We understand this is challenging on the spouses and families, however we have learned that 3-weeks is that amount of time needed to make impactful, life-long changes. Your spouse will later be included in the telehealth portion of the program, to ensure these changes are approached as a family.

Can I go home on the weekends?

We do not recommend athletes to return home on weekends, as athletes will miss important team-building events. A critical component to the S&S program is comradery and becoming a part of a life-long family. Shields & Stripes will not provide funding/assistance for any athlete choosing to travel off-site during the weekend. Of course, if an athlete experiences a family-emergency, the team will consider this.

Why would I not be accepted to the program date I apply to?

Applicants may not be accepted due to program capacity or care capacity. After careful review from our clinical team it may be determined that our program is not a good fit for the applicant’s needs. We also must ensure the group dynamic is appropriate, balancing personality types. Sometimes, a person may be a great fit for the program, however an inappropriate fit for the current group. We are also unable to accept anyone with current alcohol or substance dependency. Finally, we are not an inpatient mental health program- the person must demonstrate they are stable and safe independently. If we feel someone needs a higher level of care, we will do everything we can to best assist the applicant in finding the right fit for a mental health program.

Donors

How are donations to Shields & Stripes used?
81.5% of donations are used for program services
15.9% is used in fundraising
2.5% is allocated for system management.
How does Shields & Stripes raise funds to support its programs and services?

Shields & Stripes relies on donations from individuals, corporations, foundations, and fundraising events to fund its programs and services for First Responders and Veterans.

What sets Shields & Stripes apart from other organizations serving First Responders and Veterans?

Shields & Stripes stands out by offering a holistic, whole-person approach to the care of veterans and first responders. The program combines an intensive in-person phase followed by telehealth support, integrating physical, mental, and emotional therapies to ensure long-term success. Through a focus on personalized care and expert guidance, Shields & Stripes aims to transform the lives of those who have served, benefiting not only the individuals but also their families and communities.

Get Involved

Can I volunteer with Shields & Stripes to support its mission?

Yes, we welcome volunteers to assist with various activities and events, including fundraising, community outreach, administrative tasks, and program support.

How can I get involved with Shields & Stripes?

There are several ways to get involved, including volunteering, donating, participating in fundraising events, and spreading awareness about our organization.
Volunteer Application

Does Shields & Stripes collaborate with other organizations or agencies to provide services?

 Yes, we partner with other non-profit organizations, government agencies, and community groups to enhance the support and resources available to first responders and veterans.