Horses for Heroes

Horses for Heroes is a program for veterans, wounded service personnel, and active military members. The program uses both mounted and unmounted equine-assisted activities to assist in physical and emotional healing.

Far from the chaos of a war zone or the bustle of the VA medical center, local veterans participate in a non-traditional equine-assisted therapy program at Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding called Horses for Heroes.

Working with horses in a therapeutic setting offers instant and constant feedback to participants, requires physical strength and balance, and is highly motivational. All of these combine to make an exceptionally effective rehabilitation environment.

Equest’s serene, 34 acre farm provides a multitude of benefits for veterans and active military members seeking the opportunity to better acclimate with society, improve their mental and physical well-being, and experience new connections without the fear of being judged or feeling unsafe. With a team of encouraging volunteers, PATH International Instructors, and a supportive horse, program participants find that their self-control, self- esteem, self-confidence, and independence evolve greatly. We strive to improve, emotionally empower, and socially enhance the lives of veterans and active duty soldiers that have fought or are fighting for our freedom. This life-changing program gives us the opportunity to serve those who have served us.

Horses for Heroes helps participants with challenges including:

  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
  • Traumatic Brain Injury
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Amputation
  • Other physical limitations due to combat injuries

Benefits include:

  • Normalized muscle tone
  • Improved balance
  • Increased range of motion
  • Renewed confidence and self-esteem
  • Increased strength, coordination and fine/gross motor skills
  • Improved patience and management skills

On April 16, 2026, Equest was honored to receive a visit from Mr. Paul Ryan (retired Captain of the U.S. Navy Reserve) with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve to present the prestigious Patriot Award to two of our wonderful staff members. Kathy Ryan (Executive Director) and Kelly Alcock (Client Program Coordinator) were nominated by Sergeant Charlene Spencer of the United States Army Reserve for providing a safe and understanding work environment for an active member of the U.S. military. We are incredibly proud of these two outstanding women for the care and consideration they have shown both active members of the military and the veterans in our Horses for Heroes program.