Have you taken a close look at what Operation Horses and Heroes is doing for Veterans?

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 09:04:46 -0400

Have you taken a close look at what Operation Horses and Heroes is doing for Veterans?

There was another post that showed the website, but didn't ask the question - have you seen what they are doing.

Here is another great American providing a great service for veterans CPL Gerald Paulsen

Operation Horses and Heroes, Inc. is a 501 (c)(3) not for profit corporation providing an intensive, multi-day EAP program that immerses the individual and families in the world of the horse. Using a variety of activities, beginning from simple care and grooming to powerful therapy sessions, the full days are filled with opportunities for personal growth and learning while providing ample time to bond with others who have shared similar experiences from their military careers. No prior horse experience is needed and all work is done on the ground as there is no riding involved. Through this program all experience positive change to move forward with a greater sense of accomplishment and outlook for what lies ahead. There is ongoing support and resources available after the program.

Check out the website:

http://www.operationhorsesandheroes.org/index.html

Operation Horses and Heroes currently has 2 locations:
• Gilberts, Illinois
• Adrian, Michigan

Email Us: [login to see]
Gerald Paulsen, President
[login to see]

Benefits of the Program
• Promotes camaraderie
• Assists in reintegration
• Fosters creative thinking
• Improves self esteem
• Helps with stress reduction
• Instills leadership
• Promotes a positive attitude
• Improves communication
• Post program resources
• Opportunity for graduates to return and give back

About EAP

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) incorporates horses experientially and used as tools for mental and behavioral health therapy and personal growth. Because it is experiential in nature, each person who goes thru the program takes away something different.

Why horses? While they are large and sometimes intimidating creatures, they are inherently honest and offer a pure, non-judgmental relationship. Their feedback is immediate and accurate. They offer the participant a mirror into themselves and the opportunity to reflect, learn and grow through the interaction with the horses. Horses are forgiving and accept you for who you are regardless of your background.

For more information on participating, volunteering or becoming a sponsor, donor or supporter, contact Operation Horses and Heroes at [login to see] .

Operation Horses and Heroes

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Sep 23 at 2015 9:05 AM

Capt Seid Waddell — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 09:05:52 -0400

Great program! We have a branch here in Kentucky too.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Sep 23 at 2015 9:07 AM

LTC Stephen F. — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 09:07:57 -0400

No I have not taken a look at what Operation Horses and Heroes is doing for Veterans COL Mikel J. Burroughs.
I am familiar how non-profit horse farms have helped crippled children and abused children learn to trust and be trusted and expect that similar programs will help veterans.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Sep 23 at 2015 10:06 AM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 10:06:00 -0400

This is a great charity. Horses are loving and riding them is good for body and soul

Response by Cpl James Waycasie made Sep 23 at 2015 12:07 PM

Cpl James Waycasie — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 12:07:55 -0400

What an inventive idea. Thanks for sharing this Col. I tip my hat of praise for the outstanding work being accomplished in such a unique way.

Response by SSG Carlos Madden made Sep 23 at 2015 2:42 PM

SSG Carlos Madden — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 14:42:27 -0400

Thanks for sharing Sir.

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Sep 23 at 2015 3:37 PM

Sgt Kelli Mays — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 15:37:29 -0400

This is awesome! I have never heard of this program. It sure offers a lot....especially with the helping of self esteem issues/positive attitude, communication, reintegration and attitude....It seems like a worthwhile cause.
Horses are such gentle creatures. I know many people seem to be afraid of horses, but they just have not been around them.
It's nice to know this program exists.
Thanks for sharing it!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 26 at 2015 8:57 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 26 Sep 2015 20:57:21 -0400

Never heard of this but how awesome! Great share sir! I grew up on a horse farm and still have horses. Good for the soul

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Jan 19 at 2016 12:32 AM

Capt Seid Waddell — Tue, 19 Jan 2016 00:32:40 -0500

Yes, and I think it is a great program!

Response by SSG Michael Scott made Jan 21 at 2016 12:11 PM

SSG Michael Scott — Thu, 21 Jan 2016 12:11:55 -0500

Yes, I have and did a research paper on this therapeutic intervention.

Response by PO1 Kerry French made Jan 23 at 2016 2:37 PM

PO1 Kerry French — Sat, 23 Jan 2016 14:37:23 -0500

I have a friend (on my council with me) who is involved in an organization like this in Frederickson WA. It's near Spanaway/Puyallup - if anyone is interested, contact me and I'll put you in contact with him. I would love to do it but I am just too dang busy trying to save my state and country!