The Kash Foundation met retired US Army Special Operations Forces LTC Daniel Knott, founder and operator of Hold Fast - Knott Alone, as a grant nominee in 2024.
Dan's Story
After completing his US Army career, the third-generation Virginia waterman struggled to find purpose in life like so many other military veterans. He found himself dealing with destructive anger and violent thoughts. A chance encounter between Dan and a local preacher may have saved his life and became the inspiration for Hold Fast - Knott Alone.
With newfound purpose and determination, Dan purchased 130 acres of waterfront property off the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia with two modest dwellings to serve as a 24/7 refuge for veterans. There, he connects with visitors by combining the healing power of purposeful work, the restorative force of nature, and the trust that comes from honest conversations with peers who understand.
The Kash Foundation Grant Committee Chairman Jeff Beasley (far left), LTC (ret.) Dan Knott (center right), and military veterans from Hold Fast - Knott Alone
What Hold Fast Does
Hold Fast - Knott Alone teaches traditional waterman skills—commercial fishing, crabbing, and oystering—to veterans and first responders, many of whom suffer in silence as a result of their service to their country. The connection to nature, and to one another, on the water in Virginia gives purpose back to service members in a therapeutic, peaceful setting.
Dan Knott, founder of Hold Fast - Knott Alone
They work together on the water, prepare their harvest for weekly meals amongst the community, and form strong bonds to one another. It's not therapy in the traditional sense. It's about getting back to work that matters, being in nature, and being around people who get it.
Support from The Kash Foundation
In 2024, a grant from The Kash Foundation covered a year's mortgage of the two modest homes that Dan uses to house veterans-in-crisis on a short and long-term basis. The grant also allowed Dan to make much-needed repairs to his small fleet of boats used daily for work on the water.
Future projects, with your support, include the construction of a Native American style long house for group gatherings, upgrades to existing living quarters, and a Viking style long hall to teach blacksmithing and leatherworking to veterans.
How Can You Help?
Your generous donations and continued support to The Kash Foundation go directly to initiatives like Hold Fast - Knott Alone. These contributions help provide safe housing for veterans in crisis, maintain the boats and equipment needed for daily work on the water, and fund the expansion of programs that give veterans new skills and a renewed sense of purpose.
"You are Knott Alone, Hold Fast and together we can find your way!"
