At its core, the organization exists to provide trauma-focused mental health services to veterans with or without physical disabilities. Through evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), we support veterans and their families in their healing journey and work to restore dignity, purpose, and hope.
Recognizing that trauma is not exclusive to the battlefield, our mission has grown to include first responders, at-risk youth (both in and outside of the juvenile justice system), and children who have endured catastrophic life events. These populations often experience the same complex trauma as veterans, and Beacon of Light provides them with access to tailored therapy and vocational rehabilitation services.
A key innovation of our model is the integration of horticultural therapy-a powerful tool for healing and reintegration. Veterans and program participants engage in gardening, farming, and land stewardship as part of their recovery process. Beyond therapeutic value, these efforts address a larger systemic issue: food insecurity. Many of the communities we serve face significant food disparities, and our horticultural program not only teaches vocational skills but also helps grow and distribute fresh produce, directly combating hunger and supporting local resilience.
What began as a family-driven response to one man's silent struggle has evolved into a community-wide commitment to healing. Today, Beacon of Light Institute for Veterans is a growing movement-where trauma recovery, community service, mental wellness, and food justice come together to change lives and build stronger, more compassionate futures.
