BRADENTON – “Operation Eco Vets is my world. It has made a very big impact on my life,” said Denise Jackson, a U.S. Navy veteran.
Operation Eco Vets (OEV) is a sanctuary that provides combat veterans alternative and natural healing methods. Camille Van Sant served in the Navy for four years, got a degree in Horticulture, and then founded the non profit for veterans in August of 2018.
“I have served but they have sacrificed so that’s why I want to serve them now,” said Van Sant.
The sanctuary found a new home in Bradenton just two months ago. Van Sant says this new location offers a lot more land in the heart of Florida wildlife.
“This is on the watershed, its 5 acres of environmentally sensitive land,” said Van Sant.
The retreat offers a variety of programs that helps veterans both physically and mentally. It focuses on alternative methods of healing other than traditional medication often prescribed at the VA.
“Next thing you know you have 6-10 prescriptions…It has always been on my heart to find a way to heal our bodies without the drugs, without the painkillers,” said Jackson.
Not only is OEV a retreat where veterans can heal, it is also a spring board where vets can learn new skills and begin their own small businesses.
“I found the opportunity that I was actually looking for,” said Dana Breen, a retired U.S. Army Colonel.
Dana Breen has his own bee keeping business called Eagles and B’s and he hopes to use OEV to teach other veterans how to bee keep as well. He says caring for living things is a way of treating PTSD.
“I would like to see veterans in the area take advantage of it and learn how to raise bees and start their own business so they can sell local honey products,” said Breen.
If you’re looking to get out of the suburbs and immerse yourself in nature, there is something for everyone at Operation Eco Vets. Veterans and civilians are welcome.
OEV is participating in the 2022 Giving Challenge for non profits, where all donations will be matched by The Patterson Foundation. If you are interested in donating you can click the link here.
