The WAVES (Wounded American Veterans Experience) Project makes it possible for veterans to take part in this transformative, healing adventure of scuba diving.
To those who scuba dive, the experience can be much more than just a hobby. It’s an escape from life’s stresses and pains. A good dive can transport you to an entirely new world.
What Is The Wounded American Veterans Experience Project?
The Wounded American Veterans Experience Scuba Project, or WAVES project, offers disabled veterans and their companions the chance to enjoy one of life’s most thrilling experiences: scuba diving. This free experience provides both psychological and physical enrichment for those in need and for the ones who are the most deserving.
The project is a 501c (3) Non-Profit, designed to reach veterans and improve their quality of life with this life-changing opportunity. Many have already benefited from the program.
How Does Scuba Diving Help Veterans?
Sometimes, underwater scuba diving can make you feel as though you’re entering another atmosphere. Gravity is no longer a factor, allowing you to move about with nothing pulling you down. This weightlessness is not only mentally therapeutic. Wounded American veterans experience relief to many of their symptoms with chronic pain:
- Joint pain
- Headaches
- Muscle aches
- Spinal-related numbness
- Swelling
On top of physical relief, scuba diving can alleviate psychological stress from conditions like PTSD. The freedom a person experiences beneath the surface has a healing effect on anxiety and emotional discomfort. Scuba diving can provide more relief than medication and other topical treatments can.
Who Is Eligible?
The WAVES Project was developed for wounded American veterans, but certified providers also allow the participant to choose a dive buddy. As a result, this companionship can enhance the experience and lets the novice diver feel more comfortable.
The program involves basic diving instruction, followed by certification. Most Importantly, you will learn safety skills and the importance of buoyancy in diving, along with other valuable lessons. Equipment will be provided at no additional cost.
If you’re not a wounded veteran yourself, you can contribute to the effort by spreading the word. Encourage eligible individuals to give the program a try and share its success with as many people as you can.
How Do I Participate?
Wounded veterans can apply to the WAVES Project by filling out an application and choosing their dive buddy. A-1 Scuba is an approved affiliate with the project. We’ll provide you with a program featuring two phases: pool diving and open water diving.
From the time we opened our doors in 1959, we have been the place to go in Denver and the Rocky Mountain region for those looking to explore the wonders of the underwater world. No matter if you are a beginner, seasoned diver, or a veteran looking for a new hobby, we have everything you need to get you in the water. Contact us today to get started on your underwater adventure!
