First Responders and Veterans Program

Helping Horse’s First Responders & Veterans Individual and Family Programs provide a unique pathway to well-being for the dedicated individuals who serve our community.

Recognizing the profound impact of their demanding professions, this program offers a sanctuary at our peaceful farm, where first responders and veterans can immerse themselves in the calming presence of horses and forge meaningful connections with these intuitive animals.

Participants learn unmounted horsemanship skills with a focus on building equine relationships.
Individuals or families can escape the pressures of daily life and find solace in the natural beauty of the farm environment. Activities focus on cultivating essential mindfulness skills, fostering a deep sense of relaxation, and providing quality family time.
The core of the program lies in the powerful connection with horses, offering invaluable opportunities for self-discovery and relaxing in the present moment.

About The Program

Program Structure

In this referral-based program, first responder/veteran individuals and families build an individual relationship with a chosen horse. For the individual program, each participant receives up to 8 hours of private sessions. For the family program, each family can participate in up to three, 2 hour sessions.

All sessions are facilitated by a Helping Horse instructor who has been specifically trained to facilitate FRV sessions.

Program Principles

This is an introduction to horsemanship and wellness program – this is not therapy
Relationship based through connection with the horse
For families, an experience that fosters joy and connection with horses
Flexible scheduling
Free of charge for participants
No horse experience necessary

Why Horses?

Horses are intelligent, highly social animals that primarily use body language to communicate. As herd animals, they depend on connection and relationships for safety, security, and emotional wellbeing.

A relationship with a horse has proven to reduce stress.

Learn more about the benefits of the horse-human connection through our “Why Horses” page.

Our Partners

Being a referral-based program, we are proud to partner with the Durham VA Health Care System and local law enforcement, fire, and EMS departments.

Participant Testimonials

"Some takeaways I have is seeing the ability to grow a strong relationship with animals and humans. Letting go of some "life or death" mindsets and accepting the present moments."

"[The program] taught me to slow down inside. To match pace with something else. To set the pace. Nothing else around but that. That kind of quietness can be a norm."

"One thing that I will take away from this is the importance of being mindful of my thoughts, feelings, and “body energy.” Throughout my time working with Dixie, I found how just a small change in my energy affected her. Now that I’m more aware of this, I can take this and use it to help aid in relaxation techniques. Another thing I’ve gained from this program is an appreciation for horses and the way they can connect with humans."

"Just petting, taking care of, walking, brushing, and talking to my horse brought down my anxiety by living in the moment with her!"

"During this experience, I learned how important it is to be calm, patient, and genuine in how I communicate — not just with the horse, but with myself and others. The experience taught me that horses mirror our emotions, which helped me become more aware of my own feelings and how they affect my actions. Building trust with the horse took time and consistency, reminding me that real connection doesn’t come from control, but from respect and understanding. Overall, this ‘horse’ program helped me slow down, stay present, and find confidence in quiet moments of connection."

"Groundwork activities also hit home the importance of being more mindful and self-aware in the present moment. Helping Horse is the perfect setting to calm one’s nerves while awakening the senses."

"I think it was a beautiful reminder to get cooperation or agreement first prior to just trying to go ahead and start with my horse. Applying these two examples has helped in my personal life."

How to Support Volunteer Participate

Support the Program

Donations to the FRV Program help us to provide this service free of charge. Any donations made here will go specifically to this program.

Donate

Volunteer

Volunteers for the FRV Program first complete the general Helping Horse volunteer training, then continue with training specific to the FRV Program.

Volunteer

Participate

Participants come to us through referral from one of our below partners. Please contact the program coordinator, Jackie Shapaker, for more information.