Equine Services for Heroes

Equine Services for Heroes (formally Horses for Heroes) is a program based on the concept of soldiers helping soldiers with the aid of horses and riding The camaraderie of fellow soldiers combined with the physical and mental stimulation of therapeutic riding has proven beneficial for both the riders and the volunteers.

Therapeutic riding provides both physical benefits (improved balance, motor skills, coordination, & flexibility), as well as emotional and mental benefits (decreased mental stress, improved self-esteem & the creation of a social network).

Starting March 2008 FTGU has initiated a campaign to generate interest in creating a Equine Services for Heroes Program. In 2009 FTGU partnered with the Syracuse VA to provide funding for veterans interested in participating in Equine Services for Heroes. Veterans currently receiving treatment through the VA are eligible for financial assistance through this program.

Interested parties do not have to be connected to the Syracuse VA to participate in our program.

Becoming a Rider

Timeslots are reserved in the From the Ground Up riding schedule for Equine Services for Heroes participants. To apply for our program download our Equine Services for Heroes registration packet.

Volunteering for Equine Services for Heroes

FTGU is looking for active or inactive military personnel to serve as volunteers. Programs with military helping military have been found to be the most effective as well as therapeutic for both the rider and the volunteer.

For More Information:

From the Ground Up Equine Services for Heroes Flier

 

PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International)  (www.pathintl.org)

• "Riding Rehab. Veterans with Limb Loss Benefit," PATH International Strides magazine, Spring 2009
• "Heroes on Horses. Partnering with Veterans' Groups," PATH International Strides magazine, Fall 2009.
• "Serving the Older Veteran," PATH International Strides magazine, Spring 2008
• “I will Never Leave a Fallen Comrade,” PATH International’s Strides magazine, Fall 2006

 

CBS News (www.cbsnews.com)

• “The Horses Of Arlington,” July 2007.