We are a small team of talented professionals with a wide range of skills and experience. We love what we do, and we do it with passion. We look forward to working with you.
Founders, John & Amanda.
Feeling God’s calling, John and Amanda seek to help those who have served this country and need a wholesome place to work through the repercussions from combat trauma. They started Big Bear’s Forge & Homestead in 2022 with the dream to help others find mental peace and fight the public stigma of mental illnesses.
Meet the Board.
Volunteers.
Christina, Garden Master.
Steven, General Operations Coordinator.
Boudin, Emotional Support Dog.
Brittany, Newsletter Coordinator.
Steven, Metallurgy Operations Coordinator.
Stryder, Emotional Support Dog.
In Memoriam.
Bruce (John).
September 10, 1962 – August 10, 2020
Co-founder, Veteran
John was a Navy veteran with two sons. He helped his son, Johnathan, work towards building Big Bear’s Forge and taught him helpful tips and tricks along the way. John believed in providing a safe space for other veterans who needed to use their hands to work through the issues they faced.
Jeramiah.
December 21, 2000 – February 6, 2023
Forge Apprentice, Veteran
Jeramiah was a Navy veteran and worked with his brother, Johnathan, to help continue building Big Bear’s Forge & Homestead after their dad passed. As much as he loved blacksmithing and creating art with his hands, he loved the animals more. He truly believed in the therapeutic nature of animal husbandry.
Big Bear's Forge & Homestead 