Helping Those
Who Served
At Queenslake, we are committed to breaking the cycle of isolation and healing the invisible wounds of war.
Get InvolvedA crisis we are committed to ending
No cost to veterans and their families
Fishing, Mogadishu Mile, Housing, Appreciation Dinner & Concert
Breaking the Cycle
of Isolation
The statistics are devastating: 22 veterans take their own lives every single day in America. Behind every statistic is a person who served our country with honor — and who deserved better support when they came home.
At Queenslake, we believe that community, nature, and purpose are powerful medicines. Our programs bring veterans together in a beautiful, peaceful environment where they can fish, ride horses, compete, and simply be with others who understand.
Queenslake's own patriarch, William Chmela, served in the U.S. Air Force (1956–1960) and understands firsthand the challenges veterans face when returning home. Queenslake's veteran programs are a personal commitment to those who served alongside him.
Military Wedding Discount Available
We honor our veterans with exclusive discounts on all Queenslake services.
Our Programs
Fishing Retreats
Free fishing retreats on our 40-acre prize lake for veterans and their families. We provide gear, bait, and a home-cooked meal. These retreats offer peace, camaraderie, and connection with nature — proven tools in combating PTSD and isolation.
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Mogadishu Mile
An annual competitive running event honoring the Battle of Mogadishu. Veterans, active military, and civilians compete together in a powerful tribute to those who served. All proceeds support veteran programs at Queenslake.
Visit Mogadishu Mile
Veteran Housing
Queenslake is developing transitional housing for veterans in need. Our goal is to provide safe, dignified housing on our farm property while veterans work toward stability and independence.
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Veteran Appreciation Dinner & Concert
Each year, Queenslake dedicates one special evening to invite veterans and first responders from far and wide — completely free of charge. Guests are treated to a steak dinner on the lake, followed by live entertainment under the stars. This evening exists because of the extraordinary generosity of our local restaurant partners and musicians who donate their time and talent to say thank you to those who served. It is one of the most meaningful nights of our year.
Learn MoreThe Mogadishu Mile
The Mogadishu Mile is an annual competitive running event held at Queenslake, honoring the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Mogadishu (Black Hawk Down) on October 3–4, 1993. Veterans, active military, and civilians run together in a powerful tribute.
All proceeds from the event support veteran programs at Queenslake, including fishing retreats, the annual Veteran Appreciation Dinner & Concert, and veteran housing initiatives.
Visit MogadishuMile.comSupport Our Veterans
Whether you volunteer, donate, or simply spread the word — every action helps us reach more veterans in need.
Get Involved Today