Premiering May 14th, 2026

THE JOURNEY UNBOUND

The Journey Unbound is a documentary series that sheds light on the lives of America’s military service members and first responders, revealing the vital role faith plays in their mental and emotional well-being. Hosted by former Navy SEAL Josh Jakub, and Director of Men's Programs for AWA. The series follows a cross-country journey into the realities of moral injury and the experiences of those who serve and protect our communities.

Who We Are

The American Warrior Association is a faith-driven, research-based nonprofit dedicated to helping military members, veterans, first responders, and their families heal from moral injury. We provide practical support, community, and Christ-centred care to restore hope, resilience, and purpose.
WHAT IS MORAL INJURY & WHY IT MATTERS
Every day, 22 veterans die by suicide, and more first responders die by suicide than in the line of duty. Many carry unbearable burdens in silence. Moral Injury Awareness Day, recognized each year on May 14 in Texas, brings attention to these invisible wounds.
Moral injury is the deep psychological, emotional, and spiritual distress that occurs when a person’s core moral beliefs are violated—through actions taken, not taken, witnessed, or through betrayal. Its impact often includes guilt, shame, loss of trust, and isolation.
The Journey Unbound shines a light on this reality, offering visibility, connection, and hope. Through real stories of resilience shaped by faith, community, shared experience, and the outdoors, the series reminds our heroes they are not alone and invites viewers into a path of healing.
our program approach

Faith-fueled and impact driven

The Virtus Project™

The Virtus Project™ merges faith and science to combat moral injury. By gathering data from every initiative and collaborating with clinical experts, it drives innovative, evidence-based care. This research engine ensures our solutions remain compassionate, effective, and at the forefront of healing.

Healing & Resilience Programs

Our Healing & Resilience Programs offer transformative support through faith-based retreats and practical wellness resources. Initiatives like Warrior’s Refuge™, the R3 Program™, and peer support groups provide comfortable environments for spiritual, mental, and physical renewal. These programs empower service members, veterans, first responders and their families to overcome moral injury and embrace a renewed sense of hope.

Advocacy & Awareness Programs

AWA’s Advocacy & Awareness Programs amplify personal stories and mobilize communities nationwide. Through initiatives such as the Moral Injury Awareness Day, Voices of Valor Podcast™, and The Journey Unbound YouTube Miniseries™, we raise public consciousness and drive collective action. These efforts help build a supportive environment where healing and compassion can flourish.

Leadership Development Programs

Our Leadership Development Programs cultivate resilient, morally driven leaders through scholarships, mentorship, and service-based training. Programs like Scholar Warriors, Urban Explorers, and the Warrior’s Refuge Leadership Academy empower veterans, first responders, and Special Forces to become community changemakers. By developing their skills and character, we ensure a lasting impact that extends well beyond individual healing.

2.900+ Heroes Served

Across our programs, we’ve supported over 2,900 service members, veterans, first responders, and their families.

93% report Greater Resilience

A significant majority of participants experience improved emotional strength and reduced moral injury symptoms.

35 Nationwide PartnerShips

Through the Virtus Project™, we collaborate with 35+ government, clinical, non-profit, research, and community organizations.

132 Peer Support CirclesTM

We’ve facilitated more than 132 support and accountability small-groups, offering faith-based guidance and collective healing.

Get In Touch With AWA

We’re here to help. Whether you’re looking to apply for our programs, partner with us, or have general inquiries, we’d love to hear from you.