CHESS MATES – SMEAC’s Chess Club is built on the foundations of strategy, patience, and connection—mirroring SMEAC’s broader Engagement Model of veteran support.

We bring veterans and civilians together over the chessboard, fostering trust, focus, and camaraderie in a calm and welcoming environment. Every game is a chance to build consistency, sharpen the mind, and engage in healthy, structured competition.

Through chess, members reconnect with themselves and others, often rediscovering lost confidence and a sense of purpose. Whether a seasoned player or learning for the first time, everyone is welcome—because at Chess Mates, it’s not just about winning. It’s about creating space for thoughtful interaction and personal growth.

Like SMEAC’s core model of reconnection, rehabilitation, retraining, and reintegration, Chess Mates offers a hands-on, relationship-driven approach that delivers real outcomes—one move at a time.

SMOKING HOT – SMEAC’s Meat Barbequing Club is fired up by a shared love of good food, good mates, and great conversation around the coals.

Who can join Smoking Hot? Veterans and members of the general public—gathering together over sizzling grills to break down barriers and spark connection. The club plays a key role in SMEAC’s fourth R: Reintegration, creating an informal space where camaraderie and community thrive.

More than just barbequing, Smoking Hot brings people together in a relaxed, no-pressure environment. Veterans rediscover routine and purpose through preparing meals, sharing techniques, and feeding the crowd—an act of service that’s both grounding and rewarding.

It’s about more than cooking meat. It’s about reigniting pride, confidence, and connection—turning simple barbeques into powerful moments of trust and belonging. The skills learned and friendships forged often open doors to broader support, volunteering, or training pathways.

Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just curious to flip your first snag, Smoking Hot welcomes all who want to reconnect through the simple, shared joy of outdoor cooking. Every gathering helps fuel SMEAC’s mission—one plate at a time.

AMPHIB – SMEAC’s Fishing Club casts a wide net, bringing together veterans and the community through the quiet power of nature, patience, and shared experience.

Who can join Amphib? Veterans and members of the general public—working side by side with rods in hand, laughter in the air, and stories shared along the banks. It reflects SMEAC’s fourth R: Reintegration, using the peaceful rhythm of fishing to reconnect individuals with community and purpose.

Fishing is more than just catching fish. It’s about slowing down, observing the world, and finding calm in the moment. Amphib gives veterans structure and a goal, without pressure—just mateship, connection, and the fresh air of a new day on the water.

Each outing becomes a chance to reflect, rebuild trust, and create bonds that extend far beyond the shoreline. Whether it’s helping a beginner bait a hook or celebrating a first catch, every moment supports healing and healthy relationships.

Whether you’re an old hand or a first-timer, AMPHIB welcomes all who are seeking connection, calm, and a deeper sense of belonging through the simple joy of fishing.