Montana Veterans' Aquatic Program (MVAP)
Montana Veterans' Aquatic Program (MVAP)
Welcome to MVAP
MVAP Vision:
A world where disabled U.S. Military Veterans can find healing, regain freedom, and build confidence through the enriching experience of SCUBA Diving.
MVAP Mission:
The Montana Veterans’ Aquatic Program is dedicated to empowering disabled U.S. Military Veterans by offering safe, accessible, and professional SCUBA diving instruction and recreational activities that foster healing, self-assurance, and community engagement.
About Us
The Montana Veterans' Aquatic Program (MVAP) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to supporting disabled U.S. Military Veterans through the transformative power of SCUBA diving. We recognize that the underwater realm provides not only adventure but also liberation from physical constraints, alleviation of stress, and a profound sense of possibility.
With certified training, adaptive gear, and a nurturing community, MVAP encourages veterans to delve into new depths, both in the water and within their own lives. Whether they are embarking on their first dive or seeking advanced challenges, participants cultivate confidence, resilience, and connections that reach beyond the water.
Our Commitment
- Accessibility: Eliminating obstacles to ensure that all disabled U.S. Military Veterans can dive.
- Safety: Providing expert instruction and professional supervision at all times.
- Community: Fostering relationships built on trust, camaraderie, and shared experiences.
- Healing: Utilizing recreational SCUBA as a means to achieve physical recovery, emotional wellness, and renewed purpose.
At MVAP, we do not simply teach SCUBA; we assist U.S. Military Veterans in rediscovering their freedom, one dive at a time.
Rehabilitative Opportunities
We provide accessible SCUBA diving experiences designed to facilitate physical and emotional rehabilitation for disabled veterans.Community Support
MVAP fosters a supportive community where veterans can connect, share experiences, and build lasting friendships through shared aquatic activities.
Skill Development
Our programs not only facilitate healing but also focus on teaching essential SCUBA skills, enhancing confidence and self-efficacy among participants.Meet Our Team
Our MVAP Board, Instructors, and Cadre!
William (Bill) Ballinger
MVAP President
Bill retired after 31 years in the United States Army (Full Time MT National Guard) and currently is serving as the MVAP Board President. He is Rescue Diver Certifed and hopes to become a Dive Master and SCUBA instructor.
Kyle Wolf
MVAP Vice President
Kyle is an OEF campaign veteran. He grew up in western Montana. He is an environmental engineer who cares about the health and welfare of both his fellow humans and the environment. Besides SCUBA, Kyle enjoys other hobbies such
as snowboarding, fishing, and disc golf.
Kyle is excited to be a part of MVAP and to contribute to improving the
quality of life of his fellow Veterans
Will Rowe
MVAP Secretary
Will is a U.S. Marine Veteran, Dive Master Intern, and Dive Equipment Technician. You'll often find him diving at Lake Como or floating the Bitterroot River. Will is currently PADI Rescue Diver Certified and a Dive Master In Training.
Trevor Ashcroft
MVAP SGT af Arms
Trevor is a Disabled U.S. Army Veteran and certifed Dive Equipment Technician. He is passionate about travel and veteran outreah, and is often diving at Lake Como or Flathead Lake. Trevor is currently a PADI Rescue Diver and Dive Master in Training
Laura Bloom
MVAP Treasurer
Laura is a U.S. Air Force Veteran with a long career serving Missoula non-profits and a retired federal government employee. She enjoys travelling, volunteering in the MIssoula community, and supporting MVAP. She is currently PADI Open Water Certified.
Marc Dean
MVAP Adaptive SCUBA Instructor
Marc is a U.S. Marine Veteran and is a PADI Master Instructor and Emergency First Responder Instructor Trainer. He is a five-time PADI Elite instructor and is the owner and senior instructor at the Dive Missoula shop in Missoula, Montana.
