While we do not offer these services ourselves, our purpose is to be a catalyst to connect first responders and their families with whatever horse related and equine assisted resources may be available and beneficial by partnering with organizations who provide these various programs and resources. We offer resources for couples, families, teams, or individuals, first-timers or experienced equestrians. Not all activities involve riding, some are designed specifically to involve interacting with horses from the ground, and others can be tailored to involve riding, ground work, or both. For some of these programs and resources we will cover or offset the cost as money is available to do so – you can contact us with questions. We have opportunities such as (but not necessarily limited to):
- Recreational “day away” trail rides to relax and enjoy nature
- Opportunities to relax and “hang out” with horses
- Arena riding
- Birthday parties and other special events
- Photo opportunities
- Field trips and tours to get acquainted with horses and barn procedures
- Personal development through horsemanship and rider training
- Equine assisted physical therapy for developmental issues and injury recovery
- Equine assisted therapy/counseling for mental health and wellness, including stress related problems, PTSD, and behavioral issues
(Note: While our ministry is targeted to first responders and their families, it is not intended to be limited to only “job related” stresses, traumas, or injuries, but to benefit them in their lives as a whole in any way we can.)
If you’re interested in any of these opportunities (or perhaps something else that you’ve heard of but isn’t listed), feel free to contact us and we’ll see what we can do to connect you. (Note: as this ministry focus is still very new, we do not have all of these resources completely lined up as of yet, but are working to make the needed connections. Should a need arise in the meantime we will work diligently to find the appropriate resource for that need at that time.)
While we may not be able to personally vouch for every organization and individual we may connect with for reasons of distance and time as our reach grows, we will strive to ensure to the best of our ability that all resources are properly trained and equipped for the service they provide and that they are ethical in their practice.
Also, this IS intended to be a ministry of God’s love and healing, so in keeping with that our director, Mick, is available as a chaplain as well. Mick is a firefighter and a pastor and is available to help, and we hope to incorporate more chaplains as well as we grow and make connections.