From May 11 to May 15, The Independence Fund welcomed five extraordinary military Caregivers to Belmont, North Carolina, for a restorative retreat centered on rest, connection, wellness, and community.
Held during the Month of the Military Caregiver, the retreat gave Caregivers of wounded Veterans the opportunity to step away from the daily responsibilities of caregiving and spend time being cared for themselves. Throughout the week, the group stayed with The Independence Fund at a cozy cabin in Belmont, where they relaxed, recharged, and built meaningful connections with others who understand the unique challenges of caring for our nations wounded heroes.

For many Caregivers, the role is constant. They manage appointments, medications, emotional support, household responsibilities, and complex care needs, often while balancing their own health and family life. The Independence Fund’s Caregiver Program was created to support these hidden heroes through retreats, virtual events, resources, and year-round connection.
During the retreat, the Caregivers enjoyed a variety of relaxing and restorative activities, including manicures and pedicures, group therapy, shared meals, and time for reflection. Thanks to generous partners and supporters, the week also included team building at Carolina Fitness Farm, a charcuterie board class with Pamela Silva of Fly Boards, lunch at Hickory Tavern, and a Mahjong night hosted by supporters Amber Rozina and Arliss Day.

The Caregivers also received more than $3,000 in luxury beauty and self-care products from BLAIR Skincare. The gift served as a meaningful reminder that those who spend so much of their lives caring for others also deserve moments of rest, renewal, and self-care.

On May 14, the retreat continued with The Independence Fund’s third annual Beyond the Call fundraising luncheon, an event dedicated to honoring the heroes behind our nation’s heroes. The luncheon brought together supporters, sponsors, and community members to recognize the often quiet but incredibly important work of military Caregivers.
During the program, the five Caregivers attending the retreat were honored as guests of distinction. Their stories reflected strength, compassion, resilience, and unwavering love for the Veterans and families they support. They represent the spouses, parents, and family members who provide daily care to wounded Veterans, often behind the scenes and without pause.

The Independence Fund is deeply grateful to every partner, sponsor, donor, and supporter who made this Caregiver retreat and the Beyond the Call Luncheon possible. Because of your generosity, military Caregivers were given the chance to rest, heal, connect, and be celebrated.
To our Caregivers: your strength inspires us, your love sustains families, and your service deserves to be seen.
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