What Is ROCK on Veterans?
http://www.rockhorsesforheroes.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/MG_4310.jpgR.O.C.K., Ride On Center for Kids offers PATH International Equine Services for Heroes, a program for active duty service members and veterans partnering with horses and veteran volunteers. The goal of this program is to improve the lives of servicemen and women who have suffered injury in the line of duty, helping them adjust physically and emotionally to their post-war lives. The cost for veterans and service members to participate in the ROCK On Veterans programs are 100% covered through fundraising efforts and grants.
Services
Active duty service members and veterans can be referred to R.O.C.K. by a physician, fellow veteran, or family member and are screened by one of R.O.C.K.’s therapists or therapeutic riding instructors to determine the suitability of this treatment. Active duty service members and veterans with a diagnosis of PTSD, TBI, amputations, burns, and neurological impairment may benefit from this service.
Benefits Seen
The dynamic movement of the horse simulates normal human walking. This works as a biofeedback mechanism retraining the motor and cognitive systems for improved function. Results may include…
- Improved balance
- Improved motor skills
- Improved speech
- Improved morale and well being
How to Get Involved
Active Duty Service Members and Veterans
If you have sustained an injury in military service and believe you would benefit from this service, you may complete theClient/Participant Application and have it signed by a physician. The Director of Therapy will complete a screening to determine if the participant can benefit from the program.
Requirements for active duty service members and veterans receiving services:
- DD214 or military ID
- Evaluation by R.O.C.K. staff
- Physician release
http://rockride.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Womens-upcoming-events.jpgWomen Only Veterans Program
In addition to our co-ed programs, ROCK also offers a special women only 8 Week Horsemanship Class with R.O.C.K.’s equine partners. This class is designed to reach out to female veterans that have experienced trauma while serving our country. The program is free for female veterans and service members & is funded by the Texas Veterans Commission. Program includes a light dinner.
Volunteers
ROCK On Veterans is built on the foundation of “soldiers helping soldiers” and utilizes the camaraderie between servicemen and women to provide a healing environment.
Veteran volunteers serve as sidewalkers / horse handlers and provide moral support to the participants.
For more information about volunteering, please visit our Volunteers page.
If you are an active duty service member or and veteran who has been injured in the line of duty, or if you are a physician, therapist, or medical professional who would like more information about our program, please contact us.
Camp Courage
Summer Camp for children of all Military Branches of Active Duty Service Members and Veterans
Camp Courage is a horsemanship camp specifically designed for children ages 8 – 14 of all Military Branches of Active Duty Service Members and Veterans. The curriculum includes riding skills, horse care instruction, classroom activities and equine facilitated learning. The camp will also focus on building the character traits of: honor, integrity, respect, responsibility, courage, and perseverance. Connecting with horses and community promotes self-discovery in a way that promotes better communication and leadership skills in a way that is unique to each person. This is the 5th year that ROCK has had the honor of offering this camp to our military community.
Camp Courage is limited to 18 children. See details on other side for information on registration requirements. This camp will fill up fast, so please register as early as possible.
Lunch will be provided. Please indicate on the registration form whether the child has any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
Camp Courage is provided free of charge to these children thanks to donors that want to support and honor these families. The lead sponsor for this camp is Sport Clips.
Sponsorships by individuals, groups and businesses are always needed to sustain this camp and many other programs offered to Service Members and Veterans participating at ROCK throughout the year.For more information on this camp or the ROCK On Veterans Therapeutic Horsemanship Program for Service Members and Veterans offered throughout the year at ROCK, call 512-930-7625 x311 or email Heidi@rockride.org
