22ZERO Announces “Boots on the Ground” in Laredo, TX — Free Peer-to-Peer Trauma Support Heading to South Texas
22ZERO is bringing its mission straight to the front lines. On April 18, 2026, the 22ZERO team will be “Boots on the Ground” in Laredo, Texas — standing alongside the first responders and men and women of the armed forces who put everything on the line for our communities and our country.
This isn’t just an event. It’s a lifeline.
22ZERO’s free, peer-led program offers a proven resource for armed forces members and first responders who have experienced trauma. At the Boots on the Ground gathering, the mission will be front and center: support, healing, morale, and ministry — all in one place.
The Problem Is Real — and the Numbers Prove the Program Works
Traumatic experiences are an occupational reality for those serving in the armed forces and first responder roles across the country. The toll is staggering, and too many suffer in silence.
But here’s the good news: the 22ZERO peer program is making a measurable difference.
Recent data shows that PCL-5 trauma assessment scores — a clinical measure of PTSD symptoms — dropped from an average of 43.92 down to 10.81 following 22ZERO peer sessions. GAD-7 anxiety and depression scores fell from 13.3 to 4.05. These aren’t marginal improvements; they represent life-changing reductions in the weight our heroes carry every day.
22ZERO’s mission is to keep driving those numbers down — one session, one connection, one life at a time.
Are you struggling with trauma or thoughts of suicide? You matter. You are worth it. And you can experience real relief through the 22ZERO peer-to-peer program.
How the 22ZERO Peer Program Works
The 22ZERO program is led by trained peers — fellow armed forces members and first responders who understand the unique pressures of the job because they’ve lived them. These aren’t outsiders looking in; they’re people from within the same community, passionate about helping their brothers and sisters heal.
Through just 2 to 4 sessions over 60 to 90 days, mission clients experience a significant, measurable decrease in trauma, anxiety, and depression. The process is structured, evidence-informed, and built around connection — the kind of connection that only comes from someone who’s been in your boots.
A Mission Led by Someone Who’s Been There
22ZERO President Justin Rasik knows the power of this program firsthand. As a mission client, Justin made connections he had never made in years of traditional therapy. He learned to de-escalate in difficult situations. He started sleeping better. Most importantly, he changed his plans — from wanting to end his life to choosing to live it.
The 22ZERO process worked for Justin. It was accessible. It was effective. And now, he’s paying it forward — training peer coaches and walking alongside other mission clients who have experienced trauma from deployments and other armed forces service.
That’s what this mission is about: heroes helping heroes. See what our mission clients are saying.
Join Us — In Person or In Spirit
Boots on the Ground takes place Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Laredo Harley-Davidson (418 Crossroads St., Laredo, TX 78045). Expect live music, food, and fellowship — all in service of a cause that saves lives.
Whether you can be there physically or support from afar, your presence matters to our mission clients.
Want to help? Consider making a donation through our website or becoming an event sponsor. Contact Dr. Arnell at 931-638-7131 to learn about sponsorship opportunities.
You Don’t Have to Fight This Alone
We want every first responder and every member of the armed forces who is struggling with trauma to know one thing: you can reach out.
Call 22ZERO at 931-638-7131 or reach out online if you need support. The first step is the hardest — and we’ll be right there with you for every step after.