FAQ

How do I enroll?

You can enroll for a course by sending an email of interest or calling us at 1-977-vet2vet. Course packing list and itinerary will be sent via email.

How far in advance do I need to sign up for a course?

While there are no specific deadlines, there is limited space on our courses.  We recommend submitting your enrollment form as early as possible.

What does the cost of the course cover?

The total cost includes enrollment and fees for the course. Tuition covers the cost of food, instructors, permits, technical gear, and equipment while on course. If you are attending a course that requires travel, you will be responsible for the additional cost of those flights. 

I don’t have a lot of experience.  Can I be successful?

Yes.  Many of our participants have never spent significant time in the wilderness.  From the moment you arrive, your instructors will work to teach you the skills necessary to be safe and successful.

Where does my course start?  How do I get there?

Panurgic L.I.F.E. Foundation courses start at a designated airport near the course location.  Panurgic staff will meet you at the airport and take care of transportation from there.

What happens with my prescription medications?

All prescription medications must be approved ahead of time by Panurgic L.I.F.E. Foundation’s Clinical and Medical team members. Instructors oversee medication use for Arrow. Prescription medications need to remain in the original containers. 

Am I allowed to bring technology on course? 

For Arrow, no. For Kairos, we ask that you only use technically when it is necessary. Panurgic L.I.F.E. Foundation’s programming focuses on holistic health free from social media and distracting technologies.

What sort of training will my instructors have to address safety and risk?

At Panurgic, safety is our top priority. We hire highly experienced field and clinical staff, who are qualified in outdoor wilderness, leadership development and a variety of therapeutic frameworks.  We are certified as Wilderness First Responders, Wilderness Advanced First Aiders, or the equivalent.  All staff members are trained in Nonviolent Crisis Intervention techniques. We meet all local, state, and federal requirements for their positions.  Panurgic L.I.F.E. Foundation’s instructors have extensive expertise in our adventure activities, including rock climbing, water activities and survival preparedness. 

  • following industry-standard best practices in operations and training.

  • using state-of-the-art equipment for communications and wilderness living.

  • requiring ongoing professional risk-management training for all field and operations staff.

  • providing 24-hour on-call personnel for any emergent need.

Each team member undergoes pre-program training consisting of an orientation which covers the program’s

  • Mission, vision and values

  • Job responsibilities

  • A field practicum

  • Policies and procedures

  • Emergency protocol and safety standards

  • De-escalation/crisis intervention certification.

In addition, staff receive weekly in-service trainings and debriefings that cover a variety of topics, including program logistics, treatment modalities, program safety, policies and procedures review, crisis intervention skills, etc.

How do you choose your routes?

We select routes and locations that feel remote but are close to emergency resources and easy to access; cell phones keep field staff in constant communication with other staff members, and give them immediate access to all emergency services. 

Will I get regular meals?

Panurgic L.I.F.E. Foundation provides healthy food options that vary each day. Food is never withheld or used as a consequence. We provide an ample supply of fresh water daily to each group. 

What are different activities offered during courses?

Our courses are either hiking focused or canoeing focus.  Imbedded into each course will be the following activities:

  • rock climbing

  • basic survival

  • Land navigation/orienteering

  • fishing

  • kayaking

  • therapy

  • yoga

  • team building

What is wilderness therapy and how does it work?

Wilderness therapy programs use wilderness and adventure-based experiences as a vehicle to promote the therapeutic growth of participants. Wilderness therapy programs use the wilderness environment and natural consequences – both through metaphor and within the program activities – as part of the therapeutic process.

Where is base camp located?

Base camp is located in Grantsburg WI.  Grantsburg is known as the  “Gateway to Crex Meadows”, one of the largest wildlife areas in Wisconsin.  Grantsburg is also an access point to the St.  Croix National Scenic Riverway which provides over two hundred miles of pristine, picturesque river setting.  Panurgic base camp is 1.5 hours from Minneapolis/St Paul.

Is Panurgic L.I.F.E. Foundation a part of the Army?

No.  Panurgic programming is owned and operated by Panurgic L.I.F.E. Foundation, 501 (c)(3). 

Will my child be "pushed" towards the military?

No. We are not recruiters.  We believe in the values and service that the military has to offer and work hard to create programming that reflects a balance of hard and soft skills with wilderness and therapy.