From direct volunteering and donations to advocacy and community engagement, some veterans require support that addresses their physical, emotional, social, and economic needs. Each action contributes to a more significant effort to honor and assist those who have served our country, assuring they receive the assistance and recognition they deserve. The Eagle Oak Retreat Foundation in Italy, Texas, plays a crucial role in supporting the well-being of our nation’s heroes just south of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. 

Retired Hawaiian business owners Lillian and Steve Watanabe created the Eagle Oak Retreat Foundation in 2023 to strengthen the mental, physical, and emotional health of combat veterans, first responders, and their families through holistic and comprehensive retreat programs. Resting on an 11-acre rural ranch surrounded by oak trees, ponds, and horse pastures, the foundation aims to create a serene environment where participants can heal, connect, and rejuvenate.  

Eagle Oak Retreat Foundation offers a variety of wellness programs, including: 

• Therapeutic Retreats: Experiences that include counseling, group therapy, and activities designed to help participants process trauma and build resilience. 

• Recreational Activities: Hiking, fishing, horseback riding, yoga, and other outdoor activities that promote physical wellness and relaxation. 

• Skill-Building Workshops: These workshops focus on life skills, career development, and educational opportunities designed to aid in reintegration into civilian life. 

• Family Support: Providing the families of veterans and first responders with resources and respite care necessary for healing. 

“These programs are giving back to our veterans and first responders by helping them cope with past events,” said Public Affairs Manager Michael Cox. “The foundation aligns perfectly with Atmos Energy’s Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities initiative by showing respect, support, and honor for our hometown heroes.” 

Atmos Energy began its partnership with the Eagle Oak Retreat Foundation last November after the organization spoke at one of the natural gas company’s annual Week of Giving events. Since then, Atmos Energy employees have volunteered their time and resources by helping to prepare and serve lunch, tidying the dining hall, cleaning windows, rebuilding flower beds, and donating boxes of supplies filled with paper towels, pencils, and cleaning items. 

“When we volunteer in the kitchen, our employees may chop up onions, cut carrots, or make homemade croutons,” said Cox. “After lunch, almost every retreat participant shakes our hands and thanks us for being part of what they’re going through. But we are the ones who are truly thankful – for the veterans and first responders who went overseas or put their lives on the line for us daily.” 

"Our partnership with Atmos Energy has been nothing but wonderful,” said Jessica Jessop, Eagle Oak Retreat Foundation chief of staff. “We have enjoyed working with their team members who generously donate their time and resources to support our mission. It is very evident their employees genuinely love and care for our Warrior community."  

Visit eagleoakretreat.org to learn more about how the Eagle Oak Retreat Foundation is helping individuals and families heal and thrive.