Today we’d like to introduce you to Erik Conradson.
Hi Erik, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Thank you for the opportunity! I’m Erik, Founder and Executive Director for Courage Incorporated. I’m also a born and raised Yooper from the small town of Ishpeming, Michigan—just west of Marquette.
Back in 2015 I started a nonprofit organization called Courage Incorporated. The idea originally came from a conversation with an old friend. He was a double leg amputee, and as age caught up to us both, he was experiencing more mobility challenges. We’d always been avid outdoorsmen, and he mentioned that there weren’t many local organizations that could help him get back outdoors if he ever needed that kind of assistance.
We also shared a deep desire to give back to those who’ve served and sacrificed for our country, especially those who came home different than how they went in. Wounded veterans and those living with PTSD often struggle deeply after their discharge. Keeping all of that in mind, we came up with the idea to build something that would help people get into the woods or onto the water when life had made that difficult for them. Then we laughed about the fact that we had zero equipment, zero funds, and zero nonprofit experience—nothing to actually make the idea happen.
I used my business background to start building a plan. I knocked on doors asking for used equipment and donations. I set up tables at local bars and restaurants to tell our story. I started learning the basics of grant writing and eventually submitted my first grants. I partnered with support organizations to help us obtain our 501(c)(3) status. Slowly but surely, the effort started paying off.
In 2016, after gathering a small amount of equipment and money, we hosted our first adventure. From that point on, I focused on scaling the organization into what it is today. We went from one cooler full of hotdogs and a tarp to keep us dry to an organization with boats, an ATV, a box truck of gear, and all the equipment needed to host a full weekend in the woods. We can now accommodate multiple people with physical disabilities—plus our volunteers—on each trip. We also feed everyone for the entire weekend. It’s truly an all-inclusive outdoor experience!
Since starting, we’ve hosted wounded veterans, amputees, individuals with traumatic brain injuries, stroke survivors, Stage IV cancer patients, and many other differently abled people. Everything we do is FREE for our participants and volunteers. Each year we host three summer adventures and three winter ice-fishing adventures, with additional one-off trips mixed in. We’ve gained the trust and support of our communities, and they continue to help us provide memorable experiences to people who might not otherwise be able to enjoy the outdoors.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been easy, and we still have ups and downs—thankfully a lot more ups these days. As we’ve gained experience, we’ve learned how to anticipate and budget for challenges.
In the beginning, one of the biggest lessons we learned was the value of quality equipment. To stretch our limited funds, we used to buy cheaper gear… and as the old saying goes, “you get what you pay for.” The gear just wasn’t built to withstand rugged, repeated use. We quickly realized that investing in quality equipment saved us money in the long run because it held up better.
Fundraising has also been a challenge. We haven’t yet secured the kind of steady, recurring income that would let us operate comfortably without worrying about running out of funds. That said, I’m very proud of the annual fundraiser we’ve built. Our communities continue to show up in a big way, and when we combine that with grants, donations, and partnerships, it allows us to keep moving forward in our mission. (And hey—maybe this is a good place to mention that we accept donations through our secure website: www.CourageIncorporated.org)
Volunteers have been another challenge. We have a small core group who show up again and again, but we’d love to build a deeper bench. Time is one of the most valuable things people have, so we understand when someone wants to help but can’t commit. Even our own staff, myself included, sometimes struggle to meet the time demands that come with delivering high-quality experiences for people who need them.
But even on the toughest days, the moment someone catches a fish who never thought they’d fish again, or sits by the fire surrounded by people who understand them—we recognize our challenges are worth it.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a Yooper through and through. I grew up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (da U.P. eh!) spending countless hours in the outdoors. I graduated from Northern Michigan University and spent nearly 15 years working in big-box retail in operations and security. Throughout that time, I worked hard to develop myself as a leader and to help my team members grow into leaders too. My goal was always to create an environment where people had the tools and support they needed to succeed.
After leaving retail, I started my own real estate investment company. Today I own and manage rental properties throughout the Fox Valley area of Wisconsin, providing quality housing in the community.
I’m married to my amazing wife, Kelly, and together we have two kids, Liam and Finnley. We love spending time outdoors and exploring new places together. I’m an avid fisherman and a big music lover. On most weekend evenings, you can find me next to the firepit in my backyard with the tunes cranked.
You asked, what am I known for… Have you seen this magnificent beard?!?
Since starting Courage Incorporated, my appreciation for volunteerism and giving back has grown tremendously. I’ve seen firsthand how our work impacts the lives of others, and the positivity that comes from it. There’s a unique kind of satisfaction that comes from self-sacrifice and service—something I challenge everyone to seek out.
Leading this organization has also shaped me as a parent. I want my kids to see the value in helping others, and I’m always proud when I see them be generous with their time or kind to someone who needs support. It’s also taught me that every single one of us—no matter who we are—needs help sometimes, and there’s no shame in asking for it.
I’m grateful to be part of something bigger than myself and to know that the work we’re doing is helping create some light in the world.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I’m not really sure that I’d say I’ve had good luck or bad luck. Its better to say that I’ve had good experiences and bad experiences in my life (both personal and professional). I am thankful for all of the good experiences. I’m humbled by the bad ones and do my best to learn something from them.
Luck…. luck would be finding a lottery ticket that would allow Courage Incorporated to go on forever.
Pricing:
- Pricing: Free for participants & caretakers
- Pricing: Free for volunteers
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.courageincorporated.org
- Instagram: @courageincorporated
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/courageincorp
- Youtube: https://YouTube.com/courageincorporatedvideos
