At Warrior Bonfire, healing can begin with a shared adventure, a good conversation, and time spent with people who understand. Whether you’re a Purple Heart recipient learning about the program or someone looking for ways to support its mission, you may have questions about eligibility, retreats, or donations. Here are some answers to help you get started.

FOR PURPLE HEART RECIPIENTS & SPOUSES

FOR DONORS, SUPPORTERS & VOLUNTEERS

For Purple Heart Recipients

Who is eligible to become a Warrior Bonfire member?

Warrior Bonfire membership and Bonfire Retreats are open to Purple Heart recipients. The program’s retreats are designed primarily for Post-9/11 Purple Heart recipients, bringing small groups of veterans together for shared activities and connection.

What documentation do I need to register?

You’ll need to provide official documentation showing your Purple Heart award. Our registration form requests a DD214 or DD215 showing the award.

How do I sign up for a retreat?

Start by submitting the Warrior Bonfire member registration form. After applying, you can browse retreat options and request a spot. A team member will follow up about availability and travel arrangements. If the retreat you request is full, you can be placed on its waitlist.

What happens during a Bonfire Retreat?

Each retreat pairs an activity or adventure with time to connect with six other fellow Purple Heart recipients. Experiences vary… from fishing, rafting, and outdoor adventures to cultural outings and adaptive activities… but the focus remains on camaraderie, healthy mindsets, and building lasting connections. Every retreat includes our Bonfire American Flag Retirement Ceremony, honoring fallen brothers and sisters.

How long are the retreats, and what do they cost?

Bonfire Adventure Retreats typically last three to seven days. Lodging, meals, travel, and activities are provided at no cost to participating veterans.

Can I attend more than one retreat?

Yes. Alumni members may attend multiple events. Priority is given to members who are waitlisted, so availability can depend on the retreat and the number of requests.

Are there programs for spouses, too?

Warrior Bonfire offers retreats designed for spouses, as well as couples’ experiences. These provide time to connect with others who understand the challenges of supporting a Purple Heart recipient. Spouse and couples opportunities are offered separately, so check the current program listings for details. 

Are there ways to connect outside of a Bonfire Retreat?

Yes. We also offer other opportunities, including Campfires and Jammin’ at the Bonfire. These programs give veterans additional ways to connect through local events, shared meals, music, and community. Availability and activities vary.

Are there opportunities for Purple Heart recipients to serve? 

Yes. Purple Heart recipients can continue their journey with Warrior Bonfire through Beyond the Bonfire, a post-retreat program designed to foster healing and build supportive communities. Beyond the Bonfire gives alumni opportunities to stay connected, strengthen bonds formed during retreats, and continue supporting one another through shared experiences and community.  

Where can I find the latest retreat and program information?

Visit Warrior Bonfire’s Purple Heart Patriots page for current retreat listings, application steps, and availability. For other ways to take part, explore the program’s giving and volunteer information.

For Donors, Supporters & Volunteers

How can I support Warrior Bonfire?

There are several ways to help. You can make a one-time or recurring donation, contribute airline miles, support lodging, meals, or activities, donate a vehicle, or organize a fundraiser. Our program also welcomes volunteers and donated services.

Learn more >

What does my donation help provide?

Donations help Warrior Bonfire provide Bonfire Adventure Retreats and other connection opportunities at no cost to participating Purple Heart recipients. Support can help cover important retreat expenses such as:

• Travel to and from a retreat
• Lodging and meals
• Guided outdoor adventures and adaptive activities
• Retreat supplies and event costs
• Community-building programs for veterans, spouses, and families
• Ongoing opportunities for alumni to stay connected

A gift of any size can make a difference. When supporters come together, they help ensure that more veterans can access the camaraderie, understanding, and meaningful experiences they deserve.

Donate today >

Are donations tax-deductible?

Warrior Bonfire is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law. For questions about your specific contribution, contact us or consult a tax professional.

Can I help if I’m not able to make a financial donation?

Absolutely. You can volunteer your skills, help host a retreat or fundraiser, connect the program with potential sponsors, or donate meals or activities. You can also follow and share Warrior Bonfire’s work to help more people learn about its mission.

Learn more >

Can I organize a fundraiser for Warrior Bonfire?

Yes. Community fundraisers are a great way to raise awareness and bring people together in support of Purple Heart recipients. Fundraising efforts can take many forms, including golf tournaments, benefit dinners, workplace giving campaigns, social media fundraisers, auctions, concerts, and local business events. If you are interested in hosting an event, reach out to our team early in the planning process. They can help you determine the best way to connect your event to the mission.

Contact a Team Member >

What volunteer opportunities are available?

Volunteers help Warrior Bonfire extend its mission in many ways. Depending on current needs and location, volunteers may assist with retreats, fundraising events, community outreach, meal support, logistics, photography, administrative tasks, or donated professional services. You do not need to be a veteran to volunteer. What matters most is a willingness to serve, listen, and help create a welcoming environment for the veterans and families Warrior Bonfire supports.

Contact a Team Member >

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether you’re a Purple Heart recipient seeking connection, a spouse looking for support opportunities, or a supporter who wants to make a difference, Warrior Bonfire is here to help. Our programs bring veterans and their families together through shared experiences, meaningful conversations, and a community that understands.

If you have questions not covered here, please contact our team. You can also follow Warrior Bonfire on social media for the latest retreat announcements, program updates, stories from the community, and ways to get involved.