Our vision is to positively influence and enhance the lives of First Responders and Military Veterans along with their families, suffering stressors from service through creative arts and team dynamics.
We provide restorative support for Active and Retired First Responders & Military Service Members who have experienced the effects of trauma while in service by bringing new life to old things. Our program focuses on providing a lifelong way to manage and cope with trauma in a creatively artistic way through restoration of cars and collectibles,and other mediums.
There are no fees or costs for those who participate in the program.
At Guardian Garage, we are a community driven organization of first Responders and Veterans dedicated to supporting veterans and first responders in their journey towards healing and resilience. We understand the lasting impact that trauma can have on these individuals, and we believe in providing them with a lifelong way to manage and cope through the creative art of car and collectible restoration. Through our unique approach, we offer a safe and supportive environment where veterans and first responders can find solace and purpose in restoring cars and collectibles, channeling their emotions into meaningful projects. By engaging in this creative process, they can find a renewed sense of purpose, regain a sense of control, and develop new skills. Guardian Garage serves as a catalyst for personal growth and empowerment, fostering camaraderie and connections among participants, while ultimately helping them reclaim their lives and find joy in the journey of restoration.
You will be around around folks who have walked a similar path and can help in a myriad of ways. Our staff has been there done that. No skills are necessary to participate we will provide the knowledge and support to guide you into whatever artistic medium makes you feel comfortable.
Our objective is to provide the skills and techniques to continue the Participants understanding of stress management through the creative process of restoration and modification of previously discarded or decaying objects. This skillset will provide a lifelong benefit in dealing with their specific mental health issues as well as provide a way to socialize and integrate with the community and family.
Rob, an Army Veteran who served in Desert Storm and Operation Intrinsic Action, is a man of diverse passions. As a devoted classic car owner and enthusiast, as well as an avid motorcycle rider, his dedication to helping others led him to spend five years as a board member with the Austin chapter of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. Currently, he holds the esteemed positions of Life Member and Honor Roll Inductee in the organization.
While having a successful career as a salesman in the commercial HVAC industry, Rob found renewed inspiration to serve others. It all started with a conversation he had one day with his brother Craig, who shares his passion for resurrecting old cars and collectibles. As they discussed how this shared interest could be a means to cope with their personal traumas, the seed of an idea sprouted. Thus, the concept for Guardian Garage was born and the healing began.
With over 30 years of service, including a combat deployment in Operation Desert Storm, and a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership, Senior Master Sergeant Mike Wilson (Ret.) is eager to continue serving. Mike’s passion for people and leadership makes him a great fit for our organization.
End of Watch August 1st, 2024.
Tom retired after 20 years in the Fire Service holding all positions from Firefighter to Fire Chief. Tom was an integral part of the start-up and operations of Guardian Garage, his smiling face and great attitude while facing great adversity was an inspiration to all. He had always been involved in giving back to the community. He also ran several youth group homes in the valley and enjoys volunteering his time and energy where it was needed. Tom was also a car enthusiast and loved rock crawling and playing in the dirt!
Stephanie is 10-year veteran of the Air Force and former Law Liaison and certified Hostage Negotiator with the Arlington Police Department. Stephanie is uniquely familiar with the stress and trauma first responders and veterans encounter. She has spent her career specializing in complex trauma working with survivors of sexual assault and abuse, domestic violence, combat trauma, vicarious trauma, dissociative disorders, PTSD, self-harm, suicidal and homicidal ideation, and psychosis.
Stephanie holds bachelors degrees in Psychology and Criminal Justice, and a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling. She is currently working towards her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology.
Bob worked as a Technician in the Nuclear Power industry, Welder/fabricator, Carpenter, Cabinet maker and Plumber, Then in the late 90’s He started a Law Enforcement career where he spent 25 years with AZDOC. Bob started out as an officer after a few years and with his extensive technical background switched to Physical Plant Maintenance. Bob taught Inmates assigned as trustees, Welding/Fabrication, Carpentry and Cabinet making. Bob is a Pinstriper and Airbrush Artist as well and enjoys volunteering at the Guardian Garage using his knowledge to inspire and teach others. Bob spends many hours at the Garage working with participants, his knowledge and ability to teach is invaluable.
Rob, an Army Veteran who served in Desert Storm and Operation Intrinsic Action, is a man of diverse passions. As a devoted classic car owner and enthusiast, as well as an avid motorcycle rider, his dedication to helping others led him to spend five years as a board member with the Austin chapter of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. Currently, he holds the esteemed positions of Life Member and Honor Roll Inductee in the organization.
While having a successful career as a salesman in the commercial HVAC industry, Rob found renewed inspiration to serve others. It all started with a conversation he had one day with his brother Craig, who shares his passion for resurrecting old cars and collectibles. As they discussed how this shared interest could be a means to cope with their personal traumas, the seed of an idea sprouted. Thus, the concept for Guardian Garage was born and the healing began.
With over 30 years of service, including a combat deployment in Operation Desert Storm, and a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership, Senior Master Sergeant Mike Wilson (Ret.) is eager to continue serving. Mike’s passion for people and leadership makes him a great fit for our organization.
End of Watch August 1st, 2024.
Tom retired after 20 years in the Fire Service holding all positions from Firefighter to Fire Chief. Tom was an integral part of the start-up and operations of Guardian Garage, his smiling face and great attitude while facing great adversity was an inspiration to all. He had always been involved in giving back to the community. He also ran several youth group homes in the valley and enjoys volunteering his time and energy where it was needed. Tom was also a car enthusiast and loved rock crawling and playing in the dirt!
Stephanie is 10-year veteran of the Air Force and former Law Liaison and certified Hostage Negotiator with the Arlington Police Department. Stephanie is uniquely familiar with the stress and trauma first responders and veterans encounter. She has spent her career specializing in complex trauma working with survivors of sexual assault and abuse, domestic violence, combat trauma, vicarious trauma, dissociative disorders, PTSD, self-harm, suicidal and homicidal ideation, and psychosis.
Stephanie holds bachelors degrees in Psychology and Criminal Justice, and a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling. She is currently working towards her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology.
Bob worked as a Technician in the Nuclear Power industry, Welder/fabricator, Carpenter, Cabinet maker and Plumber, Then in the late 90’s He started a Law Enforcement career where he spent 25 years with AZDOC. Bob started out as an officer after a few years and with his extensive technical background switched to Physical Plant Maintenance. Bob taught Inmates assigned as trustees, Welding/Fabrication, Carpentry and Cabinet making. Bob is a Pinstriper and Airbrush Artist as well and enjoys volunteering at the Guardian Garage using his knowledge to inspire and teach others. Bob spends many hours at the Garage working with participants, his knowledge and ability to teach is invaluable.
