The Big Red Barn Retreat named finalist for the 2025 Defender Service Awards
October 7, 2025
Public Voting Open from October 3rd – October 19th, 2025
The Big Red Barn Retreat (BRBR) has been selected as a finalist in the Honorees category in the 2025 Defender Service Awards, presented by Chase, and needs your vote to win. This national recognition celebrates nonprofit organizations that embody the Defender spirit of service, adventure, and humanitarian impact.
As a finalist, the Big Red Barn Retreat will receive $5,000 from Chase to support its programs and services for our nation’s heroes. Public voting will take place from October 3rd – 19th, 2025, where community support will help determine the winners. Six category winners will receive a customized Defender 130 vehicle and an additional $30,000 award to further their mission.
Defender Service Honorees, recognizes past finalists from 2021 to 2024 and gives them another opportunity to win a custom Defender 130 vehicle and award funding. While these organizations did not win in their original categories, their ongoing impact and continued need for a capable vehicle make them strong candidates for a second chance at winning. To learn more about The Defender Service Awards, watch the finalists’ videos and cast your vote, please visit Defender Service Awards.
“This third time competing is a tribute to our Warriors’ spirit, a testament that we do not just survive; we thrive in Struggling Well,” said Lamont Christian, Director of PTG Programs. “This competition is more than just a prize. It’s our mission: driving forward to serve those who serve, proving that with the right foundation, there are no obstacles, only new opportunities.”
Winners of the 2025 Defender Service Awards will be announced the evening of November 15, during a special evening celebration at Destination Defender. Held at Galway Downs in Temecula California, November 14-16, 2025, Destination Defender is a weekend festival of the Defender lifestyle. Owners and enthusiasts can participate in the Defender Drive Experience, where they will test their off-roading skills on a challenging trail excursion. The weekend also features multiple stages of live music, culinary experiences, wellness activities and more. Camping and glamping options are available for those who prefer sleeping under the stars. To learn more about Destination Defender, please visit: Destination Defender | The Adventure Experience | Land Rover.
About The Big Red Barn Retreat
Founded in 2014, the BRBR is a 501(c)3 nonprofit located in Blythewood, SC. Each year, the organization provides no-cost mental wellness programs and services to more than 2,500 veterans, active-duty service members, National Guardsman, Reservists, and first responders. All programs and services provided at The BRBR are funded through grants and private donations. For more information, please visit its website here.
