At the helm of Warriors & Quiet Waters is marketing director Stevie Thieme, who spreads the word about what this organization does to help veterans and their families. Stevie became passionate about veteran organizations such as Warriors & Quiet Waters after her younger brother joined the Army in 2014. “Taking this job has given me a deeper understanding for my brother and what he might be going through,” Stevie said. The organization hosts 32 programs each year, and they are projected to host 200 veterans in 2025, with the belief in quality over quantity in each program. For many, the structured environment and clear sense of purpose provided by military service can be difficult to replicate in civilian life. Warriors & Quiet Waters is designed to address this need by creating a supportive community for veterans. Stevie highlights three key elements that contribute to this community: “People, our place, and our program.” By focusing on these three elements, Warriors & Quiet Waters aims to create a community that supports veterans in their transition to civilian life. This approach recognizes the importance of addressing the multifaceted needs of veterans and providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive beyond their military service, while connecting with nature throughout Montana. As veterans transition into the program, everything the program offers in these nature retreats is provided to them at absolutely no cost. 

The mission of Warriors & Quiet Waters is simple, yet profound: Provide healing and support to veterans through the serenity of nature and the camaraderie of fellow veterans. Founded on the belief that the tranquility of Montana’s rivers can offer solace and renewal, the organization takes veterans on fly fishing excursions on some of the state’s most picturesque waterways. Veterans of all ages find themselves immersed in the therapeutic rhythm of casting lines and the gentle flow of the waters. Each program becomes a journey of self-discovery and connection amidst the breathtaking beauty of their surroundings. The impact of Warriors & Quiet Waters extends far beyond the banks of Montana’s rivers. For many veterans, the experience becomes a catalyst for transformation, igniting a renewed sense of purpose and hope for the future. Through the simple act of casting a line into the water, participants find a pathway to healing, resilience, and a renewed connection to the natural world.  

 Support from local businesses and members of the community makes it possible for WQW to cover all expenses associated with the program; this support also allows the team members to focus entirely on their mission of providing a nurturing and empowering environment for our veterans as they navigate their journey of healing and growth. After completing a program, 25% of the participants come back to volunteer, creating lifelong connections and a lasting sense of community. For those who have served their country with courage and sacrifice, the rivers of Montana offer more than just fishing and solitude; they offer a sanctuary of healing and hope.