Our Purpose

Life after service can feel like losing part of your identity. For our country’s veterans, the need for mission and belonging does not end when they take off the uniform. Veteran Conservation Hunters exists to help veterans reconnect with purpose, community, and meaningful service through ethical conservation hunting and stewardship.

Through VCH, veterans continue serving by helping protect New Jersey’s fields and forests while building lasting connections outdoors.

What We Do

VCH supports veterans, the land, and local communities through ethical conservation hunting. We provide equipment, experienced mentors, and access to land through partnerships with local land trusts and conservation organizations.

Veterans take part in guided hunts, stewardship efforts, and community-oriented programming that creates repeated opportunities for connection, responsibility, and service.

More than a one time experience

This is not a single outing or one-time event. VCH is an ongoing program and community. Veterans participate in multiple hunts throughout the season, organized events, and hands-on stewardship efforts that strengthen skills, confidence, and connection over time.

Our Impact

Our work creates impact in three connected ways. Veterans gain meaningful outdoor experiences, mentorship, and community. Conservation partners benefit from deer management and stewardship work, including invasive plant removal that helps native habitat recover. Local communities benefit through venison donation and other forms of service that help address food insecurity.

Trusted Conservation Partners

In partnership with trusted conservation organizations across New Jersey, VCH supports deer management, habitat stewardship, and restoration efforts that benefit forests, wildlife, and local communities.

What People Are Saying

  • I got to spend time outside decompressing during somewhat stressful times in my life. The program built my confidence as a woman and a hunter, trusting myself, my gear, the surroundings.

    — Kristi, Participant and Marine Corps Veteran

  • This brought me back to a sense of purpose, of being part of something bigger than myself. It surprised me how much I got out of being a mentor, probably more than I gave.

    — Jason, Mentor and Navy Veteran

  • Veteran Conservation Hunters is an outstanding group doing the vital work of reducing deer overabundance for the good of all of New Jersey’s wildlife and plants.

    — Mike Van Clef, FoHVOS Stewardship Director