New group offers vets, others chance to relax, recharge

Alaska and the Mat-Su are home to a large number of veterans. If first responders, emergency responders and their families are added, the number totals more than 245,000.

Giving these modern heroes an unforgettable outdoor adventure is the mission of the new local nonprofit Boots to Waders. The brainchild of Valley residents and veterans Jeramie Snead and his wife of 20 years, Charlie Tracey, the organization provides free fishing charters as a means to reconnect, recharge, and find peace through outdoor activity.

Jeramie Snead, the organization’s director, said Boots to Waders is about more than just casting a line, it’s about escaping the stress, embracing nature, and building lasting connections with loved ones.

“It’s been amazing,” he said. “Our first year as a nonprofit has gone really well and every trip has been meaningful, not just for the fishing but for the connection and relaxation it provides.”

Boots to Waders partners with Alaska charter companies to offer these unique opportunities. But individuals and organizations supporting the cause have also been instrumental in a successful launch and keeping each adventure cost-free to participants. To date, 45 people from law enforcement, emergency responders, corrections, and military and veterans communities have been served by Boots to Waders.

“Honestly, it’s humbling,” he said. “Seeing people relax, laugh and enjoy a day on the water reminds us exactly why we started Boots to Waders. It makes us proud and grateful to give back in this way.”

Of the 45 people who have experienced what the group offers, 20 were funded by the Mat-Su Health Foundation through a grant awarded in March.

“Grant support makes all the difference. It takes the pressure off fundraising and lets us focus on what matters: getting people on the water and giving them that chance to relax and recharge,” Snead said. “The value is huge. The foundation’s support doesn’t just fund programs, it invests in people. It helps create healthier, stronger communities by making sure organizations like ours can actually do the work.”

Supporting local nonprofits has always been part of the core mission of the Mat-Su Health Foundation. As part owner of the Mat-Su Regional Medical Center since 2007, the nonprofit Health Foundation has invested a share of its hospital profits in scholarships, sponsorships, and grants to local organizations like Boots to Waders. In the last 17 years, while continuing to ensure the hospital meets the needs of a growing local population, the Foundation has returned more than $140 million to the community, all with the goal of improving overall health and well-being across the Mat-Su.

Snead said Boots to Waders’ initial success has buoyed hopes for future growth, including year-round outings and providing outdoor experiences beyond fishing, like glacier cruises or simple river floats for those who just want to enjoy being on the water. The feedback he has received confirms that giving responders and veterans a chance to step away, reconnect, and recharge is something that is not only needed, but makes a difference.

“This program is so important, not just now, but for years to come,” he said. “The need is greater than we ever imagined.”

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www.bootstowaders.com