ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT

A LIFETIME OF BELONGING

Built for More begins a long-term relationship. Our robust alumni engagement program, led by alumni, sustains momentum, deepens relationships, and fosters a national network of peer mentors and leaders. WQW is a lifelong source of connection, purpose, and community.

“The week at WQW is an end of old ways and a beginning of better ways to approach relationships, activities, and life at large. I can’t wait for the opportunity to give back to the organization which poured so much into me.”

Warrior

regional meetups

KEEP IT CLOSE TO HOME

At the core of the Alumni Engagement Program is the mission to increase connection and build community, and an Alumni Meetup is the perfect way to achieve this on a local scale. Meetups can range from an hours-long outing in nature with your flyrods to a half-hour chat over a cup of coffee. The important thing is taking the time to connect with your regional alumni to continue building a strong community that fuels your thriving life.

If you’re interested in setting up a Meetup in your area or getting involved, please contact Curtis Wellock at curtis@wqwf.org or the Alumni Advisory Council at wqwalumnicouncil@wqwf.org.

PAY IT FORWARD

Your Built for More journey is complete. But your impact at WQW is just beginning.

There are many meaningful ways you can help provide the same life-changing experience for the Warriors coming after you.

Learn more

GET INVOLVED

Three men walk in a gravel parking lot near kayaks on a trailer and several parked cars, with trees in the background.

VOLUNTEER AS AN ALUM

Give back to the WQW community in a fulfilling way by volunteering as an alum.

We encourage all alumni to return to serve on a program experience.

Learn more

A man in camouflage pants and a white long-sleeve shirt is kneeling in a lake, smiling, as he holds a fish with both hands. Another man beside him, wearing glasses and a blue cap, is holding a fishing net. The background features a forested area with tall trees and a small bridge across the lake.

warriors & quiet waters podcast

Check out the Warriors & Quiet Waters podcast where staff, program facilitators, and Warrior alumni dive deeper into the pillars of Built for More and much more!

listen now

STAY ENGAGED WITH VIRTUAL PROGRAMS

ALUMNI ROD BUILDING PROGRAM

The WQW Alumni Rod Building Program gives Alumni the opportunity to build their own custom fly rod while learning new skills and connecting with fellow Warriors. Led by experienced WQW Alumni instructors, this multi-week virtual program walks participants through the rod-building process from start to finish.

Over the course of the program, participants learn the fundamentals of rod building, including assembling components, installing guides, wrapping thread, and adding the personal touches that make each rod unique. Alumni receive the materials needed for the build and work alongside instructors and fellow participants throughout the process.

No previous rod-building experience is required. By the end of the program, each participant will have built a functional, personalized fly rod they can take to the water and enjoy for years to come.

More than simply building a fly rod, this program provides another opportunity for WQW Alumni to learn together, stay connected, and continue Recreation for Purpose from wherever they call home.

WILLY SELF FLY-TYING PROGRAM

The Willy Self Fly-Tying Program provides WQW Alumni with an opportunity to continue building their fly-tying skills while staying connected with the WQW community. Led by fellow WQW Alumni, the program welcomes everyone from first-time fly tiers to experienced participants looking to learn new patterns, share techniques, and spend time with other Warriors.

Beginner Fly-Tying offers structured instruction designed to teach the fundamentals of fly tying and build confidence at the vise. Participants progress through foundational skills, techniques, and fly patterns with guidance from experienced alumni instructors.

Advanced Fly-Tying provides a more relaxed, club-style environment where experienced tiers can learn new patterns, exchange techniques, and enjoy the camaraderie of tying alongside other WQW Alumni.

Whether you're tying your first fly or adding a new pattern to your fly box, the Willy Self Fly-Tying Program is another way to stay connected, keep learning, and continue enjoying recreation with purpose.

Stay tuned for 2027 fly-tying and rod-building course schedules and the opportunity to sign up.

2026 UPCOMING REGIONAL MEETUPS

Oak Heart Lodge - Currently Full
Newaygo, MI, October 6th - 10th, 13th - 17th
10 Alumni participating per Meetup

Women’s Cohort Meetup - Currently full
Quiet Waters Ranch, November 5th - 9th
8 Alumni participating

Idaho Regional Meetup - Currently Full
Fishing Hells Canyon, Riggins, ID, November 6th - 8th
11 Alumni participating

Guadalupe River Float - Currently Full
San Antonio, TX, December 4th - 6th
8 Alumni participating

Keep connected to learn about upcoming events for 2027!

MEET YOUR ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

Want to learn more about our Alumni Engagement Program and how you can get involved in events and experiences?

Reach out to Curtis, your Alumni Engagement Manager.

Contact curtis

HEAR FROM CURTIS ON THE WARRIORS & QUIET WATERS PODCAST

alumni advisory council

Always ask the ones who have walked in their shoes

As Warriors, our Alumni Advisory Council knows both veteran life and our programs well. They’re our compass, offering informed feedback and ideas on how we serve our program participants and alumni. Well-connected, they also loop us into opportunities, challenges, and partner nonprofits. Last but not least, they engage local alumni over coffee cups and fly-fishing rods.