Who Are We
Elliot and I met in 2014 at the Little Apple Bowling Alley in Manhattan, Kansas, and we were married shortly after. We have three beautiful children: Grayson, Braxton, and Rhemington. Our shared experiences as a military family, combined with my background in mental health and Elliot's passion for the outdoors, led us to envision Recovery and Resilience Outdoors. We wanted to create a space where veterans, first responders, and their families could find support, healing, and connection in nature. Our journey has been shaped by our deep commitment to serving those who serve, and we are excited to continue growing and expanding our impact in the years to come.
Elliot Hughes
Owner
From a young age, my passion for the outdoors has grown immensely. Hunting is not merely about pursuing a coveted buck; it's a family tradition that creates enduring memories that far surpass the lifespan of modern gaming devices.
After my military service, I reconnected with the hunting world and sought to involve my family. My children delight in accompanying me into the woods, assisting with cleaning the deer. However, I emphasize to them that hunting extends beyond the harvest. Nature possesses a transformative energy that many people overlook.
Having experienced PTSD and other common stressors faced by military families, I find solace and mindfulness in the woods. Our organization aims to harness this energy by introducing more military families to the outdoors. Additionally, we facilitate gatherings for veterans and first responders who may not have the means to afford lavish hunting trips, offering them memorable family experiences.
I am Elliot Hughes, born and raised in Upstate New York. After graduating from Tupper Lake Middle/High School in 2011, I enlisted in the army on April 2, 2013, specializing as a field artillery tactical data systems specialist. During my military career, I undertook two combat deployments and a brief stint in Kuwait. In June 2023, I received a medical discharge from the army and currently reside in Elgin, Oklahoma, with my wonderful wife, Amanda Hughes, and our three children: Grayson, Braxton, and Rhemington.
Throughout our nine years of marriage, my wife and I have developed a deep desire to support veterans, first responders, and the outdoors. As a licensed professional counselor, Amanda brings her expertise, while I contribute my passion for nature. Together with our children, we aim to give back to these heroes and their families.
As a disabled veteran, I personally comprehend the challenges faced by military families. I strongly believe that the woods and nature possess healing properties often overlooked. I am currently pursuing a degree in wildlife management and aspire to fulfill my dreams of teaching, mentoring, and guiding individuals toward improved mental health and personal well-being through guided hunts and family adventure activities.
Amanda Hughes Ms, LPC, NCC
Owner
My name is Amanda Hughes, and I'm originally from Prattville, Alabama, where I attended Prattville Christian Academy. I graduated from Troy University of Montgomery in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Sociology.
My journey hasn't been a straight line - I've explored different paths, from running my own photography business to attending nursing school. However, my passion has always been rooted in mental health, a field where I felt I could make a real difference.
My deep connection to the military community stems from my family's extensive history of service. I've witnessed firsthand the unique challenges and sacrifices that come with this life, which has fueled my desire to provide specialized mental health support to military members, first responders, and their families.
My educational and professional background has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to support individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges. I hold a Master's in Science with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, with specialized training in military family and culture, trauma and crisis, marriage, couples, and adolescent counseling. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Oklahoma.
I'm a firm believer in the healing power of nature and often integrate outdoor activities into my therapeutic approach. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where my clients can build resilience, overcome challenges, and cultivate lasting well-being.