New disc golf club empowers veterans through sport, camaraderie
Vets Disc Golf Club—Cedar Rapids held a Glow in the Dark Disc Golf Fundraiser on Oct. 11. A total of 17 parties participated, raising $800 for the Freedom Foundation, specifically for the food pantry and emergency assistance.
New disc golf club empowers veterans through sport, camaraderie
By Laura Drummy
laura@nelsonmediacompany.com
Brian Eschen, from rural Alburnett, has launched a new Disc Golf Club aimed at helping veterans through the enjoyment of a new hobby.
The Vets Disc Golf Club (VDGC)—Cedar Rapids is a chapter of the national organization VDGC based in Atlanta, GA. The group is dedicated to encouraging veterans to take up disc golfing, raising awareness about veterans' mental health, and promoting the sport's growth.
Eschen started the club earlier this year, understanding just how important it is to have camaraderie among veterans.
“I am a veteran and I deal with PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder),” said Eschen. “A lot of veterans isolate and the best thing to do, and it works for me, is being outside.”
Eschen served in the United States Navy and Army from 1985-1990. He was an Electrician's Mate on the USS Tarawa, deployed in a Westpac, and served during the beginning of Operation Desert Shield.
While serving, Eschen witnessed three United States Marines make the ultimate sacrifice, which was life-changing.
After leaving the military, Eschen felt the lasting effects and spent many years not knowing he was struggling with PTSD.
“When you are in the moment, and that is what sucks about PTSD with Veterans, it is a living Hell,” said Eschen.
After seeking treatment in St. Cloud, MN, for PTSD in 2017, Eschen said the program gave him hope to fight to live while understanding the disorder.
“I heal by helping veterans,” said Eschen. “I fight to live every day to help my veterans. The veteran's disc golf does so much for me. It gives me a purpose.”
The purpose extends outside the disc golf club. Eschen is also the president of the Freedom Foundation in Cedar Rapids, serves on the Healing at English River Outfitters (HERO) board from Washington, IA, and is on the board of the Patriot Recovery House in Cedar Rapids.
Eschen established VDGC–Cedar Rapids out of a love for the outdoors and a desire to support local veterans. Joining the club requires no prior experience or specific skills; the primary focus is on enjoyment, and participation is free for veterans. Additionally, veterans do not need to worry about acquiring their own equipment, as Eschen received a generous donation of 30 discs earlier this year.
“Our vets like being outside and being around other veterans too for the camaraderie,” said Eschen. “Anyone can do it. Once you learn how to throw, you’re set.”
Eric Parker, a VDGC member and a United States Army veteran, began attending the club earlier this year. Eschen noted that he was initially inexperienced at disc golf but has improved over time and is fully committed to the sport.
Eschen noted that while VDGC primarily serves veterans who have honorably served, it also welcomes family members and supporters of its mission to join the club.
“Anybody that is a veteran or you supporting veterans you are welcome to join Vets Disc Golf Club,” said Eschen.
Since starting the club, Eschen has seen around 8 to 12 veterans each week who enjoy disc golf. The club now meets on Fridays, and as winter approaches, Eschen will transition to indoor putting leagues. The club meets at Eschen’s home at 3551 St Peters Rd, Marion.
Once the warm weather returns, the club will resume meeting every Wednesday to play in the leagues.
“This is all about having a good time and not winning,” said Eschen. “It's about trying and making memories.”
Eschen even held the first event, a Glow in the Dark Disc Golf Fundraiser on Oct. 11, at his private course.
A total of 17 people participated, raising $800 for the Freedom Foundation, specifically food pantry and emergency assistance.
Freedom Foundation is a grassroots 501(c)3 Nonprofit Veterans Service and Support Organization formed by local military veterans to help each other navigate post-service challenges. The foundation, located at 4001 Center Point Road NE in Cedar Rapids, serves Linn, Jones, and Benton Counties. It offers a variety of amenities on-site and effectively collaborates with other organizations to support veterans. The foundation focuses on fostering camaraderie and providing assistance in critical areas such as nutrition, financial aid, and both physical and mental health care.
Additionally, the foundation administers programs such as the Veterans Emergency Financial Assistance Fund and offers a complimentary “homecooked” luncheon every Thursday.
“It's a hand-up–It's all about helping you (the veteran),” said Eschen.
As Eschen approaches the end of his first year, he remains deeply committed to raising awareness about VDGC and its vital mission to support veterans. He understands the unique challenges that veterans face and genuinely wants to engage more individuals and organizations in this critical cause, fostering a compassionate community that genuinely listens and responds to their needs. Additionally, he is dedicated to exceeding this year's Glow Fundraising goals, knowing that each dollar helps provide essential support for the Freedom Foundation in the future.
For more information about VDGC–Cedar Rapids, follow its Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1412009479745993, using the UDisc app by searching Vets Disc Golf Club Cedar Rapids or contact Eschen at 319-310-8677.
Brian Eschen, from rural Alburnett, launches a new Disc Golf Club for veterans to raise camaraderie and awareness about veterans' mental health and promote the sport's growth.
Brian Eschen has created an exclusive disc golf course that utilizes unique specialty glow-in-the-dark discs, allowing players to enjoy a fun experience after sunset.
Vets Disc Golf Club—Cedar Rapids held a Glow in the Dark Disc Golf Fundraiser on Oct. 11. A total of 17 parties participated, raising $800 for the Freedom Foundation, specifically for the food pantry and emergency assistance.
