What is Horses for Heroes?
Horses for Heroes is a national program begun by the Ride On Center for Kids, ROCK, in Georgetown, Texas, in 2005.
The program was created in partnership with ROCK and First Horse Cavalry Detachment from Ft. Hood to assist soldiers from Brooke Army Medical Center returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.
Why horses
The bond between horse and human is undeniable – and well-documented. In a variety of ways, interacting with horses helps people with special needs to reach their greatest potential.
Horses for Heroes strives to improve the lives of service men and women who have suffered injury in the line of duty, helping them to adjust physically and emotionally to their post-war lives.
Participants must be approved by a physician and screened by a therapist, mental health professional and a therapeutic riding instructor.
Soldiers with a diagnosis of PTSD, TBI, amputations, burns and neurological impairment may benefit from this service.
Soldiers helping soldiers
Veteran volunteers are recruited to support their fellow soldiers.
Veterans provide moral and physical support to their wounded comrades honoring the military philosophy of no soldier left behind.
All veteran volunteers will receive training in program goals, horse handling, side walking and safety.
Benefits seen
The rhythmic and repetitive motion of the horse simulates the normal human walking gait.
Balance, core strength, fine and gross motor skills and speech improve as well as a sense of confidence and accomplishment as the soldier develops a connection with the horse.
To participate or volunteerDownload an application and contact us to set up a participant evaluation or attend a volunteer training.