Diving
Adaptive scuba and snorkeling programs guided by certified instructors experienced with injured military personnel.
Non-Profit Since 2007
Servicemembers
Servicemembers
Undertaking Disabled
Sports
SUDS is a multi-sport organization providing wounded, injured and ill servicemembers with challenging adaptive activities to help facilitate their rehabilitation process and promote mobility.
2007
Founded
0
Servicemembers Helped
0
Adaptive Sports
0
Charitable Funded
SUDS is a Multi-Sport Organization
SUDS instructors and guides are experienced working with severely injured military — both active duty and veterans with permanent physical disabilities.
Hiking
Trail hiking experiences adapted for servicemembers with physical disabilities, promoting mobility and mental wellness.
Rock Climbing
Adaptive rock climbing sessions that help rebuild strength, confidence and determination in wounded warriors.
White Water Rafting
Thrilling white water rafting adventures designed to challenge and inspire servicemembers on their road to recovery.
Skiing
Adaptive alpine and cross-country skiing programs that redefine what's possible for our brave servicemembers.
Our Mission
Improving the Lives of Wounded Servicemembers
SUDS trains wounded warriors in challenging and rewarding activities in order to help facilitate the rehabilitation process and promote mobility.
501(c)3 Non-Profit
SUDS operates on low administrative overhead and exists solely through charitable donations from supporters like you.
Full Transparency
SUDS has regular audits, receives pro bono legal counsel, and posts its financial filings publicly on this site.
Military Leadership
All board members are prior or current military — we understand the unique challenges faced by our servicemembers.
Offering Multiple Sports
Multiple sport activities enable more servicemembers to participate and find the challenge that drives their recovery.
SUDS is a proud 501(c)3 non-profit and a member of MOVE UNITED. ›› Learn More
Our Impact by the Numbers
In 2007 SUDS ran its 1st class. Few knew that it would touch so many lives. We are grateful for the contributions from donors across the country.
2007
Year Founded
0
Lives Touched
0
Sport Programs
0
Volunteer Board
Rehabilitation Through Adventure
Providing Wounded Servicemembers Challenging Activities That Help Facilitate Their Rehabilitation Process
SUDS offers a variety of adaptive sports that help you confront challenges and redefine your capabilities — critical to successful rehabilitation. SUDS instructors and guides are experienced working with severely injured military, both active duty and veterans with permanent physical disabilities.
See SUDS in Action
Real moments from our adaptive sports programs.
Diving
Rock Climbing
Hiking
Skiing
SUDS Audited Financials
2019 Audited Financial Statements – Released
SUDS maintains full financial transparency. We publish all audited financial statements so donors can see exactly how contributions are used to help servicemembers. Read More →
Latest News & Updates
The latest from our adaptive sports programs, events, and warrior stories.
Contact Us at 210-303-2181
Have questions about SUDS programs or want to get involved? We'd love to hear from you.
Get In Touch With Us
Whether you're a servicemember interested in our programs, a potential donor, or someone who wants to volunteer — reach out. We're here for you.
Send Us a Message
Trending in Adaptive Sports — July 2026
Updated Jul 6, 202601
Adaptive Scuba Certification
Veterans seeking PADI/SDI open-water certification through adaptive programs is up sharply in 2026.
02
Wounded Warrior Sports Therapy
Adaptive sports as clinical rehabilitation is growing recognition from VA medical centers nationwide.
03
Live Sports Event Coverage
Families and supporters increasingly watch adaptive sports events online via live stream and highlight reels.
04
Adaptive Rock Climbing for Veterans
Rock climbing is the fastest-growing adaptive sport among returning veterans with upper-limb injuries.
05
Veterans Outdoor Sports Programs
Multi-sport outdoor programs combining physical challenge with peer community are seeing peak enrollment.
06
Nonprofit Adaptive Sports Funding
Donor searches for transparent, 501(c)3 adaptive sports nonprofits with published financials are rising.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything about SUDS adaptive sports programs, eligibility, events and how to get involved.
01 What is the SUDS adaptive diving program?
SUDS (Servicemembers Undertaking Disabled Sports) is a 501(c)3 non-profit that provides scuba diving, hiking, rock climbing, rafting and skiing to wounded, injured and ill servicemembers with permanent physical disabilities — at zero cost to participants. Founded in 2007 at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.
02 Is the SUDS diving program free for veterans?
Yes. Every SUDS program — including scuba certification, adaptive climbing, hiking and rafting — is 100% free of charge to eligible servicemembers. All costs are covered through charitable donations and sponsorships.
03 Who is eligible for the SUDS adaptive sports program?
SUDS is open to active-duty servicemembers and veterans with a permanent physical disability requiring adaptation, particularly those injured during service in Iraq, Afghanistan or other deployments. No prior experience in any sport is required.
04 How do I apply to participate in SUDS adaptive diving or sports events?
Contact SUDS directly at (210) 303-2181 or via the contact form at sudsdiving.org/contact. A program coordinator will confirm your eligibility and match you with an upcoming event. The Summer 2026 Dive Program is currently accepting applications.
05 Does adaptive scuba diving help with PTSD and rehabilitation?
Yes. Multiple SUDS participants report that adaptive scuba diving significantly improved their mental well-being, mobility and sense of achievement. The underwater environment removes gravity, reduces joint stress and demands focus — making it a uniquely therapeutic activity for veterans with physical and psychological injuries.
06 Can I watch SUDS adaptive sports events live online?
Yes. SUDS documents major adaptive sports events with video coverage and posts event highlights to our YouTube channel and the Gallery page on sudsdiving.org. Families of participants can follow along in real time during dive trips and sports weekends.
07 What adaptive sports does SUDS offer in 2026?
In 2026, SUDS offers five adaptive sports: scuba diving (including open-water SDI certification), hiking, rock climbing, white-water rafting and alpine/adaptive skiing. The Summer 2026 Dive Program includes destinations in Key Largo FL, Rincon Puerto Rico, Virginia Beach VA and Cozumel Mexico.
08 How can I donate to support SUDS adaptive sports programs?
You can donate online via sudsdiving.org/support-us or through the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC #94754 – National Capital Area). Federal employees can contribute through payroll deduction. SUDS has a 93-cent program efficiency ratio and publishes full audited financials publicly.
More questions? Contact our team →