Frequently Asked Questions Who are Summit For Soldiers? “Summit for Soldiers” is a project of “The Mountain Goats” (a non-profit, Adventure-based Humanitarian Org.) which is focused on drawing attention to a very serious condition affecting our combat troops known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). We are a small group of mountaineers and veterans and we intend to take this message to the top of all 50 US highpoints. (And Beyond-TBA) What are you guys trying to do? We intend to ensure practical, simplistic access to care and resources for our veterans in an environment that is supportive and void of unnecessary obstacles. We are not trying to develop treatments or programs that already exists unless it’s a situation where more is better. Our focus is awareness and efficient networking. What does climbing have to do this? We happen to be mountaineers, and while only a handful of the state highpoints are actually “climbs” less than 200 people have done all 50 state highpoints, far less than the over 1400 that have climbed Mt Everest! So, we couldn’t think of a better objective that could be utilized as a platform to get our message out. And just like a summit, this issue needs to be approached with respect, determination, and aware that this effort will be difficult but is not beyond reach. How do you expect to help this cause? An informed community is a powerful community. There is so much revolving around PTSD that perhaps most Americans have no idea. By conducting a nationwide campaign that draws together the veterans, community, and resources we hope to raise awareness to a level that drives change for better understanding, support and access to prevention and treatment options. Specifically, we expect to bring education to the families of warriors, bring PTSD knowledge and training to the warrior opposed to telling the warrior “go find it if you need it.” What exactly do you offer the community? We offer an opportunity, a chance to get involved by understanding what these troops have been through and learning how to best support them when they return. We want our family well and we want our communities to understand the stresses these troops have endured. If you know a veteran the answer is obvious, if you don’t then perhaps this is one way to show your support of the “person” regardless of one’s view of the wars they fight. So you have an aware community… so what, where does it go from there? Volunteers! See one, do one, teach one. We have bigger ideas and objectives, but they will depend on community involvement. If we discover a system that needs repair then we will need all of you behind us to fight for that change. We expect great things! An informed community means new and brilliant ideas that we have not thought of. Why should I get involved with you guys? There are 1000’s of causes out there to get involved with, but if the health and welfare of our veterans is something that is important to you then please consider joining our endeavor. Here is an opportunity to show your support and fight for change that benefits all of us. PTSD doesn’t just affect the individual; it affects family, friends, employers and the community. We are always open to new ideas and creative opportunities, and as an adventure-based organization we are certainly not afraid of hard work or having fun during this quest! What will my donations go to? Our number one goal is Awareness. So your tax-exempt donation will go towards helping us meet our objectives in reaching communities in all 50 states. As we grow and consider additional worthwhile objectives (that align with our Vision and Mission statement) we will reevaluate our financial commitments. This project is our passion and we can assure that we are committed to maintaining complete transparency, scrutiny and maximize every dollar to achieve the greatest impact towards this mission. Aren’t there already things people can do if they suffer from PTSD? Yes, there are resources available but they may not be the most ideal. As with a lot of things, it sometimes looks better on paper than in reality. Currently there are many obstacles that prevent soldiers from getting the attention they need (perceived or real) and we hope to sort through and simplify this process. Secondly, one of our objectives is to ensure warriors understand PTSD due to the fact that even though there are existing treatments; they are useless if warriors do not go after it. Are you trying to change the “system” what if the “system” is the best already? If there is a “system” that already exists and meets the needs of our veterans, then in no way do we want to change it. In fact, we want to support and incorporate it into our campaign. However, most things can always be made better and if we discover a better solution then why not try to improve it. Aren’t there people out there doing the same thing as you guys? I hope so! As far as we are concerned the more the merrier. Our goal is to increase public awareness and if other organizations are helping to do this then we all will have a greater effect. I do believe we are the only group trying to do this as a 50 state campaign utilizing climbing objectives as our stage. If you know of an effective organization; tell us about them so we can connect and work as one team. | 
