One of Combat Recovery Foundation's most successful community projects is the Backcountry Sawyers Project. We gather veterans and survivors in the Alexander Mountain Wildfire burn scar to restore the land and build community.
My why is rooted in a simple truth: survival is about more than just making it home. I've spent much of my life among fellow veterans, listening to their stories and understanding that true healing requires more than prescriptions or bureaucratic systems. When I discovered Combat Recovery Foundation's approach, building belonging, reigniting purpose, and creating genuine community through nature, animals, and people who 'get it', everything fell into place. This wasn't just another nonprofit to me; it was a calling.
I refuse to let those who have given so much walk their hardest road alone. I've witnessed the unspoken battles, the weight of service carried long after the uniform comes off, and the quiet moments when trauma creeps into the present. These veterans and survivors deserve more than a 'thank you for your service' - they deserve action, understanding, and a community that refuses to let them fade into shadows. At CRF, I've found something I haven't experienced since my Navy service: true family. My why is ensuring every veteran and survivor knows they have a place they belong, a purpose to pursue, and a family to lean on.
Unique Selling Proposition
Combat Recovery Foundation is veteran-led and survivor-driven, addressing suicide prevention through a revolutionary approach that goes beyond treating it as simply a 'mental health issue.' We recognize that suicide ideation stems from a lack of purpose and supportive community. While traditional approaches rely on medication and talk therapy, we create genuine belonging through nature-based programs, healing interactions with animals, and connections with people who truly understand. Our evidence-based approach doesn't just aim to reduce suicide rates - we help veterans and survivors become happy, contributing participants in society by reigniting their sense of purpose and building the community they deserve.
About me
A lifelong Coloradan, Alana enjoys the outdoors in all forms - tending her flower garden, golfing, camping, and relaxing on patios at local craft breweries. Her diverse background from Navy intelligence to municipal government to entrepreneurship has given her a unique perspective on problem-solving and building relationships. Alana's approach to both business and life is grounded in authenticity and action - she believes in rolling up her sleeves and making things happen rather than just talking about them. Whether she's managing operations at Combat Recovery Foundation or enjoying Colorado's beautiful landscapes, Alana brings the same passion and dedication to everything she does. Her friendly, approachable nature makes her someone people feel comfortable connecting with, and her deep commitment to veterans and community service drives every conversation.
Exploring Colorado's trails through hiking and camping, target shooting, cultivating flower gardens, golfing, and enjoying BBQs with great food, drinks, and even better company.