07/03/2026
Day in and day out, our police officers put their lives and mental well-being on the line to keep our communities safe. But the heavy, traumatic nature of police work often leaves scars that aren't visible.
Meet Detective Mark, a dedicated 15-year veteran of our police force. Last year, Mark experienced a critical incident in the line of duty that left him battling severe Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). He suffered from hyper-vigilance, insomnia, and an emotional disconnect from his family. Traditional counseling helped, but it wasn't until he stepped into the barn at New Song Stable that his true healing began.
Mark didn't need to ride a horse to experience its healing power. Through our specialized First Responders Program, Mark was partnered with a rescued draft horse named "Biggie." Because horses are highly perceptive prey animals, Biggie immediately responded to Mark’s inner anxiety and tension. Through ground-level exercises—like grooming, leading, and practicing nervous system regulation—Mark learned to ground his energy and process his trauma.
"As someone who didn’t grow up around horses, I initially saw them for what they are, massive, powerful animals. But through New Song Stable's guidance, that fear was replaced with respect, confidence, and eventually a real sense of comfort. They don’t just teach you how to be around horses, they teach you how to trust yourself.
What they offer, especially to first responders and veterans, goes far beyond horsemanship. There’s something deeply therapeutic about being in the barn, slowing down, and connecting with these animals. It forces you to be present in a way that’s hard to find anywhere else. For me, it has become a space where I can decompress, rebuild confidence, and walk away feeling stronger every time."
Mark is just one of many local heroes waiting to reclaim their lives. Unfortunately, our Specialized First Responder and Veterans Programs require significant funding to provide these life-saving sessions at low or no cost to the participants.
Will you make a tax-deductible donation today to help us continue this work?
A gift of just $250 allows us to provide one full week of equine-assisted learning, giving an officer the emotional regulation tools they need to process their trauma and return home safely to their families. Please visit our Secure Donation Page to make your contribution. Every dollar brings us one step closer to ensuring that the heroes who protect us have a safe space to heal. Thank you for your unwavering compassion and support. Together, we can help our first responders find peace, one step at a time.
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/364bd7f1-f02e-4e34-8519-eb326dbc8ea4
