What is Battle Forward Project?
The Problem: Stigma surrounding military mental health is a pervasive barrier that prevents service members from seeking care, speaking openly about struggles, and accessing life-saving resources. It is shaped by cultural expectations within military communities—stoicism, self-reliance, mission-first mentality—and by systemic factors such as career repercussions, institutional mistrust, and limited mental health literacy.
The Solution: Battle Forward Project raises charitable contributions and sells merchandise to cover confidential mental health care for active-duty soldiers through private, non-recorded counseling options that avoids official medical channels. We fund and resource licensed civilian therapists, telehealth sessions, and short-term intensive counseling paid directly to providers, so care does not create a permanent military medical record.
Our Mission: Battle Forward Project is a 501(c)(3) Charity. We are a veteran-led nonprofit dedicated to restoring resilience, purpose, and hope for service members, veterans, and their families. Grounded in Christian values, we provide confidential mental health resources, mentorship programs, practical transition assistance, and resilience training designed for the realities of present/post military life.
What do we do?
Mental health resources: Confidential guidance, peer-supported referrals, curated educational materials, and access pathways to licensed care tailored to trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and moral injury.
Mentorship programs: One-on-one and group mentorship that pairs experienced veterans with those navigating recovery, career change, or reintegration. Mentors provide emotional support, skills coaching, and accountability rooted in lived experience.
Transitioning assistance: Structured workshops and individualized advising to bridge military-to-civilian transitions—resume building, interview skills, career mapping, benefits navigation, and community reintegration planning.
Resilience training & workshops: Skill-based courses and experiential workshops that teach stress management, emotional regulation, leadership under pressure, peer support techniques, and faith-informed coping strategies adaptable for workplaces, families, and units.
Why we exist - We believe durable recovery and successful transitions come from integrated care—mental health support, trusted mentors, practical life skills, and community. Our programs honor service, restore dignity, and equip individuals and families to Battle Forward with confidence.
501(c)(3) Status
A 501(c)(3) is a recognized nonprofit charity that is eligible to receive donations. Gifts to a 501(c)(3) organization (such as Battle Forward Project) are generally tax-deductible for donors if the contributions are made before the end of the tax year.
How does supporting our battle make an impact?
Donating, purchasing our merchandise, and supporting fundraiser events each play distinct but complementary roles in advancing Battle Forward Project’s mission to provide mental health advocacy, resources, mentorship, and resilience training for soldiers, veterans, and their families.
-Donations
Sustain core programs: Unrestricted financial gifts cover operating costs—staff, outreach, program development, and administrative infrastructure—so we can deliver consistent mental health support, mentorship, transition experience, and resilience training.
Provide emergency support: Donor-funded emergency grants help individuals and families facing crises—housing, medical bills, or immediate mental health needs—stabilizing lives so healing and recovery can proceed.
-Merchandise Purchases
Generate unrestricted revenue: Sales of apparel and gear supply dependable income that can be allocated where it’s most needed, supporting program continuity.
Increase visibility and awareness: Wearing our branded merchandise creates community recognition and opens conversations about mental health needs among service members, veterans, and family members.
Build solidarity and belonging: Merchandise functions as a visible sign of support and shared values, fostering connection among beneficiaries, families, and supporters.
Battle Forward Project is a dedication to Alexander Goforth.
Staff Sergeant Alexander Goforth was a soldier who embodied the finest qualities required to serve with honor, steadfast dedication, and unwavering professionalism. His accomplishments during service set him apart from many of his peers; earning the esteemed title of “Master Gunner” and being awarded the “Expert Soldier Badge” truly reflected his character, skill, and deep commitment to his country. On April 1, 2024, Alexander Goforth tragically took his own life. Battle Forward Project wishes to honor his memory, support his grieving family and friends, and remember everyone who were fortunate enough to have known this remarkable man.
As a personal friend of Alexander Goforth, I have chosen to take a firm stand against mental illness that affects so many of our service members. Battle Forward Project’s mission is serving those who have served — preventing suicide, managing PTSD, and taking the Battle directly to mental illness. We are committed to being advocates for getting help, offering support and resources, and reminding every active soldier, veteran, and family member that you are not alone.
Founder/CEO
Ryland Hill
Meet the Leadership.
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Ryland Hill
FOUNDER/CEO
Ryland Hill is a former M1A2 Armor Crewman Gunner in the U.S. Army, a devoted husband and father, a dedicated government contractor, and a trusted friend within the military community. He holds a Business Administration degree from Southern New Hampshire University, which has equipped him with valuable skills for his professional endeavors. His personal experiences with the challenges faced by service members deeply inspired his strong commitment to mental health advocacy. These experiences have profoundly shaped the mission and core values of the Battle Forward Project. They continue to guide our work as we strive to support, build resilience, and bring lasting hope to soldiers, veterans, and their families in times of need.
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Christian Hill
Director
Christian Hill, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor and founder of Legacy Counseling in Frisco, Texas, where he leads a team dedicated to guiding individuals and families toward emotional resilience and purposeful living. With over 20 years of professional experience, Christian has worked extensively with adolescents, veterans, and high-performing professionals, combining evidence-based therapeutic approaches with a deep commitment to helping others overcome adversity and rediscover meaning. He earned his undergraduate degree from Stephen F. Austin State University and a Master’s in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado, grounding his practice in both academic rigor and authentic human connection. As a board member of The Battle Forward Project, Christian is honored to contribute his expertise in mental health and community development to support the organization’s mission of empowering veterans and their families to heal, grow, and move forward.
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Sierra Hill
Director
Sierra is a dedicated professional with a graduate degree from Baylor University. She has extensive experience supporting children with special needs and advancing services within the Autism field. With years of hands-on involvement, she has developed a deep understanding of individualized support, collaboration, and advocacy for others. Currently working as a professional in the Autism field, Sierra brings a strong background in Project Management and Operations Management, ensuring programs and initiatives are executed efficiently and effectively. Expertise includes coordinating teams and resources, managing schedules, facilitating clear communication, and building strong personal and professional relationships. Combines operational expertise with a genuine commitment to improving outcomes for individuals and families.