The Veterans Equine Retreat offers a weekend of connecting with two friendly horses, Ida Mae and Tessa. These two Veteran-owned mares are incredible creatures who require a great deal of care and patience. Just like Veterans, horses can be strong-willed, hard-working, and very skilled in their training activities. Connecting with horses allows Veterans to connect with themselves.

Equine therapy is a fun way to express care and concern for the horses, rekindling a sense of responsibility in a safe environment. Veterans can experience greater self-awareness while caring for something other than themselves. It can benefit those who struggle with PTS, substance use disorders, service injuries, and mental health conditions. This Retreat will help remind participants that they need patience and care in their recovery process.

Veterans will engage in horse-related activities, including grooming, feeding, and leading it around an enclosure. There will be no riding the horses. Overcoming potential fears or anxiety when being around such large animals and seeing how gentle they are when properly cared for reinforces the skills needed to: increase self-esteem, grow emotionally, become more self-aware, focus on well-being, solve problems, and enhance social skills.

Lodging, meals, and activities are provided at no cost to participants. A registration fee of $50 will be refunded one week after the completion of the retreat. You must arrange for your own transportation.

Please send questions to Sue at smwilder@projectnewhopema.org or call (508) 762-9738