2018: Partnership Established

In 2018, Solventas Foundation formally partnered with Sportsmen for Heroes, an organization dedicated to giving back to veterans and mobility-impaired individuals through guided hunting experiences. Solventas supports their mission by helping create programs that foster resilience, integrity, and renewed confidence.

2020: Veterans Elk Hunting Experience (Ruidoso, New Mexico)

In 2020, Solventas Foundation, in collaboration with Sportsmen for Heroes, planned a five-day elk hunting experience focused on building confidence and honoring service. Through a nomination process within NueHealth, three veterans were selected to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Ruidoso, New Mexico:

• Michael A. Parks (Utah) — U.S. Navy

• Roger Rector (North Carolina) — U.S. Army

• Stephen J. Cooper (Missouri) — U.S. Marine Corps

The veterans stayed in a mountain cabin overlooking the scenic landscape of Ruidoso. Each morning, they hunted elk under the guidance of Sonny Tapia, founder of Sportsmen for Heroes, returning in the afternoons to rest and prepare for evening hunts.

The experience was a black powder elk hunt, a more challenging form of hunting that requires hunters to get closer to their target and maintain complete control of the shot. While no successful shots were made, the experience exceeded expectations and proved deeply meaningful.

This trip served as a tangible expression of gratitude—recognizing the veterans’ sacrifice, selflessness, and commitment to the United States—while helping them strengthen confidence and personal integrity. We believe it is our responsibility to honor America’s heroes not just with words, but with meaningful experiences that reflect our appreciation for their service.

2025: Supporting Charley

In 2025, Solventas Foundation sponsored Charley, a 10-year-old with TAR syndrome, by funding adaptive equipment that enabled her to participate in a hunting trip with Sportsmen for Heroes. Solventas also covered the full cost of her hunting experience.

TAR syndrome is a rare genetic condition characterized by the absence of the radius bone in the forearm, significantly reduced platelet counts, and potential complications, including heart defects and other physical challenges. Despite these obstacles, Charley’s spirit is unshakable. Born with shorter arms and living with low platelets, she has never let her condition limit her determination or joy.

Through this project, Solventas helped ensure Charley could experience the outdoors alongside others—demonstrating that with the right support, no challenge is too great to overcome.