the desert forge foundation was formed by combat veterans
to serve fellow veterans. 

Like you, we served our country proudly, whether in the comfort of peace or in the midst of battle. Then one day the weapon was secured and gear was packed away one last time; it was time to head home, maybe a place not so familiar anymore.

OUR MISSION IS TO HELP OUR RETURNING BROTHERS AND SISTERS FIND

EMPLOYMENT

RESTORATION

Strength & Hope.

the facts:

Veterans represent our nation’s highest quality human capital.  As a population, veterans possess more education and training than their civilian counterparts.  But despite being highly skilled, disciplined and trained

Over one million veterans across the country are either unemployed or under-employed

In New Mexico approximately 6,000 recently returned combat veterans are in need of employment.

In addition, a significant percentage of our nation’s veterans have returned home  with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and other related physiological problems that increase the risk of suicide.

Tragically, it’s estimated that 71 New Mexico veterans committed suicide last year. 
Across the country 17 Veterans take their own lives every day.

IF YOU ARE FACING A CRISIS, YOU ARE NOT ALONE. GET HELP HERE.

VETERANS AND MEMBERS IN CRISIS -
PLEASE CONTACT ERIC ORTEGREN
​(505) 918-9768 - ortegreneric@yahoo.com

Restoring emotional, mental, and physical health to returning veterans through meaningful job training, employment, and the arts.

Warrior Farmer Project

​Helping veterans to transition to civilian life & attain financial stability through training and employment in a dynamic farm setting

Desert Fox Filmworks

Presenting veterans a creative & technical outlet by actively participating in the making of culturally relevant films