Transitioning out of the military isn’t always easy for veterans. Founder of Bear Hug Cattle Company Ben Minden, who served in the 101st Airborne Division and 3rd Ranger Battalion, recognized this after his own departure from the U.S. Army.
Despite not coming from a ranching background, Minden identified many similarities between the traits it takes to be successful in the military and the ranching industry. 

“The jobs are similar — it’s generally outdoors and doesn’t matter if it’s hot, cold, raining or snowing. You’re doing everything with a team and have something or someone else depending on you,” Minden says. “And it’s a job that you can’t just clock out of at 5 p.m. You finish the day when your work is done.”

“People coming out of the military understand how to do a job all the way, work hard and not complain,” he added. “That goes a long way in ranching, too.”

This led him to start Bear Hug Cattle Company in 2019, which provides hands-on training to veterans pursuing a career in the ranching industry. Last year, the Prime Together Foundation awarded the organization a grant, which will help fund their 10-week immersive training program for veterans.

Each summer, the program equips four veterans with the training, resources and connections required to be successful as a rancher. Participants spend the first week of the program in a classroom learning the basics before they head to ranches in Montana, Wyoming and Colorado to get firsthand experience. Beyond experiencing what the day-to-day job entails, they are introduced to and learn from many influential people in the industry.

The program leaves a lasting impact on veterans, setting them up for a rewarding life after their military careers. But between housing costs, transportation, horses and equipment, it’s not cheap to fund.

“The money from the Prime Together Foundation makes what we do possible,” Minden said “Everything we receive goes directly to funding this program, and ultimately sets veterans up for a fulfilling life, post-military service.”

“Many people get out of military and have hard time,” he added. “Transitioning out of a high intensity job like that can be very challenging. With help from organizations like the Prime Together Foundation, Bear Hug Cattle Company assists people who might otherwise be in a tough spot and gives them resources to succeed, setting them up to be physically and mentally healthy.”

Learn more about the Bear Hug Cattle Company’s efforts at BearHugCattleCompany.org, and read more about the Prime Together Foundation’s charitable efforts at PrimeTherapeutics.com/Prime-Together-Foundation.