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Our War Horse Project Charges Forward
By COL Sean Hollonbeck ( U . S . Army , Ret )
The last six months have flown by in spite of the isolation caused by COVID restrictions . The War Horse Project did not slow down . During this time , five volunteers attended EAGALA equineassisted-therapy training in Baker Florida . Veterans have been coming out on week days and weekends . We spent the spring administratively and physically addressing the aftermath of Hurricane Sally and a delightful flash flood .
Sadly during the spring we unexpectedly lost one of our star horses , Gypsy . She was loved by all and a true gift of nature to our program and especially to the kids that have come out .
AHERO ’ s last issue ’ s cover story described the War Horse Project ’ s free therapy program in detail . Since that story came out , we ’ ve developed additional ways Veterans and others can benefit from the Project here at the farm . For example :
• We ’ ve been working with the local Veteran ' s Court as a resource for affected Veterans to fulfil their community service requirements , which also introduced them to the benefits of equine-assisted therapy .
• The five Vets who took advantage of this returned as volunteers to help with the Farm .
• We have added events to help more kids and teens . A recent highlight was hosting a group of visually impaired children . The horses were right on cue , as perceptive and gentle with the kids as well-treated equines so often are .
• Also added for this summer : hosting our first weekend Veteran and spouse retreat . This couples retreat will focus on PTSD models , wellness classes , meditation , and a weatherdependent bay sunset with the horses .
We have continued to improve the land , clear pasture areas , and develop our footprint in year one . For those of you looking to volunteer as individuals or as a team for a great program benefitting Veterans and others at no charge , we could use help with :
• social media
• marketing
• fundraising
• grant writing
• barn building , literally !
The War Horse Project would be delighted to meet with new volunteers for working with the horses and the land . And we ’ re always eager to welcome groups for tours , as well as new community and VSO partners and donors to make more of our good work here possible .
COME JOIN THE HERD !
Gypsy .
AHERO MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021 85