Transforming Warrior Citizens Through Battle Fish University
GCSEN’s National Center for Veteran Ventures (NCVV) and Battle Fish Charters are launching an exciting new accredited program, Battlefish University, at Paul Smith's College of the Adirondacks.
Readers may recall we featured Battle Fish and its founders, AJ and Nicole Beaudoin, in Veteran’s Playbook, Season 1, Episode 3.
After being injured in Afghanistan and medically discharged from the Army, AJ felt lost, until he and his wife visited Saranac Lake and Paul Smith College in the Adirondacks in upstate NY. That one trip changed their lives! Soon after, US Army Paratrooper Sergeant AJ earned his B.S. in Fish and Wildlife Management at Paul Smith College and found his purpose in his new social enterprise: Battle Fish Charters.
The Battle Fish mission is to help everybody (especially veterans and their families) find peace through fishing.
By providing the best equipment and highly educated guides, “we are serious about maximizing your adventures.”
Now, GCSEN is happy to co-present the Battle Fish University Guide and the Entrepreneurial Career Camp, to help other Veterans start their own recreational businesses. This immersive camp is almost sold out with up to 15 Veterans and their spouses, and will takes place from June 28th to 30th.
About Battle Fish University
This university equips Veterans with the relevant materials and tools needed for productive jobs and business ownership in the fishing and guiding sectors. The program encompasses cutting edge knowledge, intensive personal coaching, experiential practices and new community.
The Need for Greater Veteran Well-being
The 2022 U.S. Census Bureau reports that there are 16.2 Million Veterans in the United States today. The U.S Department of Justice reports that 110,000 Veterans are in state/federal prisons, making up 8% of the general prison population. Veterans also remain the most susceptible to commit suicide with 31% of them having PTSD and being “at risk.” According to the U.S. Census Bureau data, only 5.6% of the small businesses in America are owned by Veterans with only 1% having 2 or more employees, which is among the lowest level business formation rate. We believe that it is vital for Veterans need to renew their Passion and Purpose and achieve greater Peace and Prosperity. Sadly Veterans today are more likely to end up in prison or kill themselves than ever own a small business. That is why BSU will begin to help to overcome this national tragedy as Veterans are inspired, taught and supported to launch Veteran Ventures on the HomeFront.
Thinking about attending?
Program Highlights
- Master Guides: Learn from seasoned professionals and “Veteran’s Playbook” cast and crew!
- Recreational Therapy: Indulge in outdoor activities. Learn the Battle Fish 3P's (Purpose, Patience, and Perception).
- Outdoor Leadership: Learn to be leaders with Professor Brett McLeod of Paul Smith’s College rock wall.
- 4P Social Entrepreneurship Classes: Learn from Professor Mike Caslin (Babson, Harvard, and Stanford lecturer) on starting and managing your own Veteran Venture.
- Social Media Classes: Essential social media marketing strategies from YouTube stars
- Booking Engine "Guidesly" will help veterans start and build their own webpage.
- Further Education -GI Bill at Paul Smith College and Employment Opportunities
This program needs sponsors! Want to help?
Why Sponsor?
- Brand Visibility: Appear on advertising, banners, posters, on the BSU website and social media accounts.
- Networking Opportunities: Interact with Veterans and other professionals in the field who can be your next customers.
- Corporate Social Responsibility: Demonstrate your support for veterans by helping them transition out of military service.
- Tailored Sponsorship Packages: BSU will ensure your organization is optimally exposed and showcased. Sponsors are also encouraged to sponsor a Veteran to come at the camp.
How You Can Help
We need funding support to provide Veteran scholarships ($6,000 per Veteran/Military Family) as they embark on this life-changing learning , once-in-a-lifetime experience. Your sponsorship of our efforts will provide the Know How, Know Who and Know What To Do Next to fulfill their passion of becoming a successful fishing guide of Veteran Venture Founder.
For more information on sponsorship opportunities or to discuss customized packages, please contact AJ Beaudoin - owner, Battle Fish Charters LLC, BattleFishCharters@gmail.com.