Dedicated volunteers were there when the Travis Mills Foundation Veterans Retreat opened in 2017, and are continually an eager presence with whom the organization couldn’t operate without. Meet Matt Rouillard of Sanford, Maine, who started volunteering at the Travis Mills Foundation Veterans Retreat in May 2024.
Are you a veteran?
Military service was a strong consideration of mine when I was younger. Both of my grandfathers served in WW2 and my dad as well as my brother both served. I ended up joining my grandfather at his retail business at the age of 19 and was involved for 25 years. By supporting various veteran causes over the years and now volunteering at Travis Mills Foundation (TMF), I am honored to give back to and help those who did serve.
What inspired you to volunteer with TMF?
I’ve always had a great respect for veterans. I was moved by SSG Travis Mills’ incredible story of perseverance. When I learned how his Foundation helps veterans, I decided to get involved with the organization.
In what areas have you been involved?
Groundskeeping, light carpentry, and fishing.
What do you like most and why?
I have enjoyed all of the different jobs that I have done so far, but enjoy fishing the most. I have fished nearly all of my life and it is an honor to share my knowledge of fishing with veterans and their families.
What did you learn about TMF that you did not know before you started volunteering?
Before I started volunteering, I was under the impression that TMF was a summer Retreat. I have since learned that in addition to hosting veterans and their families in the summer, TMF helps/hosts veterans year-round.
Do you have a favorite story from your volunteer experience?
While on a recent fishing trip with a veteran and his wife, the gentleman was catching most of the fish, and the friendly bantering began. Finally, her fishing pole bent over aggressively and she yelled ‘I’ve got one!’ Her husband assured her that she had caught bottom. However, the line kept moving laterally. When the fish finally surfaced, it was a very large bass. The (approximately) 18” bass ended up being the largest fish caught that day. The friendly banter continued for the duration of the trip and it was nice to see them both have a great time on the water.
Are you involved in other volunteer work?
I also volunteer at a dog rescue and sanctuary.
