THE PROBLEM:

45,000 veteran related nonprofits exist in the United States, and it has been reported that the federal government spends approximately $3 billion every year to treat veterans and soldiers suffering from PTSD.

Yet, 22 veterans commit suicide every day, and 20% of veterans with PTSD become addicted to drugs and/or alcohol.

Something isn't working.

It's time for a different approach.

OUR SOLUTION:

Heroes and Horses is a Montana-based nonprofit organization that has created an innovative, three-phase reintegration program, which is offered to qualifying combat veterans (at no cost to them) suffering from PTSD. Our program utilizes the remote wilderness of Montana, coupled with human and horse connections, to challenge and inspire personal growth in veterans suffering from mental and physical scars.

OUR PROCESS:

Our program utilizes expedition-style horse pack trips (led by experienced instructors, many of whom are combat veterans and program graduates themselves) to teach self-reliance, teamwork and perseverance. Our veterans are tasked with various objectives that require them to look within themselves in order to overcome obstacles. The connection that is formed with their horses, as well as the other team members, is not unlike the familiar sense of brotherhood that they experienced while in service, and it is a bond that, for many, remains intact well after the completion of the program.

This unique experience challenges these individuals, evokes change, and helps them to develop new ways to approach and solve problems. By challenging what challenges them, veterans can make peace with their past and replace devastating memories with positive ones.

OUR RESULTS:

Many of the existing programs offered to veterans suffering from PTSD fail when it comes to rehabilitating these individuals in a realistic and sustainable way.  The available solutions, many of which include the over-prescribing of medications and shielding from stress-inducing situations, is short-sighted and does not get to the root of the issue. Our veteran program does not provide a short cut, and it does not give you an easy way out. But, what it does give you is the resources and direction to create lasting change.

Is it challenging? Yes.

Is it intense? Absolutely.

And, perhaps most importantly, our program mandates that you look within yourself to rediscover your inner-strength, confidence, and purpose.

It starts with you.

THIS IS #NOTAVACATION

 
 
 
 
 
 
“Summer of 2017 I was accepted to the Heroes and Horses program for Veterans with PTSD. As a retired Navy Chaplain with 29 years of service I have helped many suffering with the affects of Trauma however, it was all too easy to overlook my own wounds and issues. When I retired I felt disconnected and a bit lost. I felt that I had lost my tribe of fellow military members who I had a connection and understood me. Having the time to reflect and incorporate the lessons that the horses and the Heroes and Horses team was offering has allowed me to reconnect with the inner strength and examine the issues that combat trauma has played in my life. Many of my significant relationships, particularly my wife and children, have noticed a big change. I’m more connected, engaged and don’t check out when faced with challenging life circumstances. Heroes and Horses was and continues to be a tremendous source of strength, resiliency and hope. ”
— Will - 2017 Graduate