211. Uniting for Wellness: The Rallying Call of Team RWB

"Volunteers don't get paid, not because they're worthless, but because they're priceless."  – Sherry Anderson  In this inspiring episode of Turmeric & Tequila Podcast, host Kristen Olson sits down with Aaron Varcasio, the passionate chapter captain of Team Red, White and Blue (RWB) in Denver. They dive deep into the significance of community involvement, particularly in supporting veterans' mental health and well-being. Aaron shares his journey from New York to Colorado, highlighting his transition from aspiring to serve in the navy, to becoming a pivotal figure in fitness and volunteerism. We learn about Team RWB's mission to provide physical, social, and mental support through various inclusive activities, welcoming everyone from age 16 to 99, regardless of their fitness levels. The organization boasts over 250,000 members and orchestrates 19,500 annual events. Aaron underlines the organization's focus on health, wellness, and social engagement, which touches on his personal drive influenced by his Eagle Scout background. The episode captures the heart of volunteering, with Aaron emphasizing the profound satisfaction of going to bed with a full heart after a day spent giving back. He also highlights upcoming events, like the one in May, and the need partnership support to boost attendance and membership. The call to action is clear — support servicemen and women by participating in community events and enrich your own life through the act of giving!  Related Articles: Blog — Team Red, White & Blue Team RWB Denver Team Red, White & Blue: a community-based model for ...  Time Stamps: 0:00 - Introduction to 'Turmeric and Tequila' with Host Kristen Olson 01:25 - Welcoming Aaron Varkasio, Chapter Captain at Team RWB 03:40 -Personal Journey: From New York to Colorado for Fitness and Service 06:13 - Team RWB Denver: Big, Bold Beautiful 07:54 - The Mission of Team RWB, who are we? 09:30 - The Role of CrossFit in Community and Veteran Support 12:20 - Who can attend events? Everyone! 15:45 - What do RWD funds support? 16:30- Who is an ideal partner for RWB? 19:06- The Impact of Volunteering on Mental and Physical Health 20:55 - Have Fun. 21:15 - The Eagle call 22:02- The importance of giving back, mental health for all. 23:41- What is success to you? 24:23- Eagle scout for life   Aaron Varcasio Moved to Colorado from Upstate NY 13 years ago. Currently live in Littleton with my wife Jenny and 4 Animals (2 Dogs and 2 Cats) Full Time job: Grocery/Bulk Manager at Natural Grocers. Volunteer job: Chapter Captain for Team RWB Denver Free Time: Train at the gym 5-6 days a week. Run about 2 -3 days a week. @aaronvarcasio   Team RWB: MISSION: ENRICHING VETERANS' LIVES VISION: FORGING AMERICA's LEADING HEALTH AND WELLNESS COMMUNITY FOR VETERANS www.teamrwb.org #teamrwb #teamrwbdenver  #fitness #veteran @teamrwbdenver @teamrwb   Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero  Website: www.KOAlliance.com