BOARD of DIRECTORS: Denise Hughes, President | Michelle Durbin, Treasurer | Matthew Sermeno, Interim Secretary | Sandy Jones | Randy Quan | Gabrielle White
ADVISORY BOARD: Irene Cruz | Mike McManus | Jim Thiessen | KerryAnn Magner-Varela
HOPE for Warriors
ROH is proud to serve the active duty, reserves, and veteran members of our community with free mental health services. Our HOPE for Warriors program began in 2010 in response to the alarming statistic of 22 veteran suicides a day in the United States. Today the number is even higher (27). Thus, with compassion and action we moved to assist in addressing this problem. In addition to having been certified by EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association), we have undergone the extensive additional military-specific training to receive the EAGALA Military Services Designation.
Treating the effects of trauma is never easy. In the military culture, the challenge can be even greater. The reality is that traditional psychotherapy can be stigmatizing and feel like "just a lot of talk" among people who value action. Service members are hands-on. Horses assist people in working through emotional barriers without judgment.
The horses capacity to read and respond to people’s non-verbal signals and cues often lead to powerful breakthroughs and life-changing insights. Time spent with the horses in a natural setting fosters trust, safety, respect, problem-solving skills, improved communication, and healthier relationships with self and others.
ROH’s HOPE for Warriors program is supported by a VA grant that allows us to provide eight weekly sessions at no cost to our military personnel. Please contact us if you or a loved one could benefit from this service.