Standing Ovation by Ovation Riding: Veterans’ Programs

Every Friday, Horse Nation teams up with Ovation Riding to spotlight an individual or organization doing good work in the horse world. Today, we are recognizing riding programs for our veterans all across the country.

Flickr/Karsun Designs/CC

We honor the men and women who have served in all branches of our nation’s armed forces on Veterans Day: this day specifically marks the anniversary of the end of World War I but is designated as a day to thank all members of armed forces from all conflicts. To all of our veterans, we are so grateful for your service.

The horse world provides many outlets for veterans, from free or reduced-cost lessons to programs specifically intended to help veterans recovering from physical injury as well as post-traumatic stress disorder. This is by no means an exhaustive list — click here to open a much longer list courtesy of Operation We Are Here.

We encourage readers on Veterans Day to learn more about these various programs and consider a donation to help a former or current service man or woman in need.

Heroes and Horses: Manhattan, Montana. An intensive, immersive program for veterans suffering from PTSD to challenge and strengthen individuals in the backcountry. Visit the website.

Warhorses for Heroes: Olive Branch, Mississippi. Serving active members of the military as well as veterans in therapeutic programs. Visit the website.

Bravehearts: Northern Illinois/Southern Wisconsin. Providing therapeutic and natural horsemanship, driving, drill team and horse shows for veterans free of charge. Visit the website.

Wounded Warrior Equestrian Program: Dewitt, Virginia. Founded by a veteran/lifelong equestrian who experienced the healing power of horses in her recovery from PTSD and sought to help others. Visit the website.

Project H.O.P.E.: Novato, California. Working with veterans and their families to help treat PTSD and work through other interpersonal problems. Visit the website.

The Xena Project: Houston, Texas. Working with veterans and families through a wide range of therapies, including equine-assisted therapy, art therapy, counseling and ministry to heal individuals and relationships. Visit the website.

Horses Healing Heroes: Herald, California. Harnessing the healing power of equine-assisted psychotherapy to serve veterans and develop coping skills for everyday life. Visit the website.

If you know someone who deserves a Standing Ovation, we would love to recognize them in a future post. Email the name of the person or organization along with a message about the good work they do to [email protected]. Photos/videos are always welcome, and include a link to their website if applicable.