Operation
Be Herd
Why Horses?
Horses are naturally intuitive and responsive to human emotions. By observing and interacting with them, veterans gain unique feedback and insights that foster growth and healing. Whether it's standing alongside a horse, grooming, or participating in an activity, every interaction is guided by the core value of "challenge by choice," ensuring each participant engages at their own comfort level.
Operation Be Herd is a transformative, 6-week (FREE) program designed exclusively for veterans and active duty service members. Held three times a year—spring, summer, and fall—this program offers a safe and supportive environment where veterans can connect with each other, explore personal growth, and experience the therapeutic power of horses.
Our herd serves as intuitive partners, helping participants uncover new insights about themselves and build critical life skills, all while enjoying the healing effects of the outdoors.
This is a purposefully built 6-week program, with each session building upon the last. To fully experience the benefits of Operation Be Herd, we encourage participants to commit to attending all six sessions. Each week introduces new tools, skills, and opportunities to connect with others and the horses, creating a transformative experience over time.
This program is completely free for participants, thanks to the generosity of our supporters and donors.
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Upcoming Programs
Spring Session: Friday's, March 14 - Friday, April 18 (10 - 12 PM)
Registration Closed
Summer Session: Friday's, July 11 - Friday, August 15 (9 - 11 AM)
Fall Session: Friday's, October 3 - Friday, November 7 (10 - 12 PM)
Registration Available September 1st
What to expect:
Through guided equine-facilitated learning sessions, participants will:
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Build connections with other veterans - Build meaningful relationships with others who share similar experiences and understand your journey
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Experience a peaceful, outdoor setting - Enjoy the healing effects of nature, surrounded by open spaces that foster relaxation and reflection
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Work hands-on with our Horses - Participate in activities like grooming and groundwork, building trust and teamwork through your interactions with the horses and other animals
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Engage at your own pace, no pressure - Take part in activities that feel comfortable to you, with no expectations or pressures
Testimonials
Group Participant
"I loved the round pen exercise because it helped me learn how to communicate with the horses and to build and maintain a connection with them without adding stress or pressuring them to do what I wanted them to do. It also gave me a safe space to explore what works and what doesn't when building a connection"
Group Participant
“This is the first time I’ve really known that I made it back alive”
Impact of Your Support:
While Operation Be Herd is free for participants, running this life-changing program comes at a cost. Here's how your donations help:
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$8,100 covers the cost of one full 6-week program.
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$810 provides one veteran access to the complete program.
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$135 funds a single two-hour session for one veteran.
Every donation, no matter the size, makes a huge difference! Together, it all adds up to support our veterans through healing equine therapy programs. Thank you for helping us create a safe, supportive space for veterans to heal and connect.