HOPE MILLS, N.C. -- A local chapter of a nonprofit group spent a few hours Sunday helping veterans, their families and emergency first responders find some peace and serenity out at Hope Mills Lake.

• Sunday was a day filled with kayak fishing for veterans
• The event was organized by Heroes on the Water
• Organizers say it's a way to build a relationship with nature

Heroes on the Water volunteers spent time with service members giving tips about kayak fishing. Organizers say the goal is to give these folks a little quality time to forget some of the harsh things they may have experienced during their service.

"It creates an intimate relationship with the water and the outdoors," said Chis Hall, the chapter coordinator for Heroes on the Water. "Hopefully [they can] let go of some of those demons they've been hanging on to."

Nationwide, there are more than 90 chapters of Heroes on the Water.