An equestrian center in Powhatan, Virginia, is dedicated to helping our nation's heroes heal through equine assisted therapy.
Click the photo story above to find out more! (Photography by Kami Miles)
When our nation’s wars debilitated the very heroes that raised their right hand to protect and serve our homeland, many grew discouraged fearing a stagnant and uncertain future. Tucked away in the historical countryside of Powhatan, Virginia, resides Lonesome Dove Equestrian Center, a quaint horse farm where confidence and hope are regained – a home where heroes ride again.
Regardless of physical, mental, or emotional disability, the non-profit organization aims to revive a sense of freedom through the incredibly healing effects of equine-assisted therapy. From benefits such as improved muscle tone to enhanced self-confidence, the majestic animals are key to assisting our nation’s past, and current, warriors rebuild.
The equestrian center’s team is an all-volunteer 150 person force; no one is paid to come. The organization relies completely on donations and run by unpaid, dedicated volunteers. Steve Nelson, the president of the Lonesome Dove Equestrian Center board, says that they choose to dedicate their time and well-earned tax dollars because they want to give back. Volunteering at the farm includes assisting with riding sessions, cleaning and caring for the horses, and building maintenance.
“When I started volunteering,” said Nelson, “it was dynamic. I worked with teenagers that had traumatic experiences from Kuwait, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Seeing their expressions and how the horses interacted with them really made me see the good we can do. This is what life should truly be about.”
Heartland Heroes in Buckingham, Virginia partners with Lonesome Dove to provide certified instructors from the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH). The interactive sessions are designed for the specific needs of each individual rider and delivers a wealth of restorative benefits.
Nelson says equine-assisted therapy provides mental stimulation, improved muscle tone, improved mobility, enhanced self-confidence, and overall enjoyment.
Lonesome Dove’s indoor area also offers a mounting ramp with a 300-pound capacity lift to help amputee or paralyzed vets get on the horse.
Therapists and Lonesome Dove volunteers use a lift to assist a disabled veteran, paralyzed from the waist down, from his wheelchair on to a therapy horse. (Photos: Kami Miles)
According to Nelson, “the rhythm of a horse is almost the same rhythm as someone walking. Those with ambulatory issues – those that are missing lower limbs or are paralyzed – experience the same sensation as if they are walking. It builds that core strength and synchronizes that muscle memory.”
Founded in 2008 with just three riders and a couple horses, Lonesome Dove has provided over 2800 therapeutic rides at no cost for veterans of all ages ranging from prior service to active duty.
“We serve those who served our country when we needed them,” said Nelson.
If anyone is seeking to volunteer, there are many ways to help: financial donation, equipment and feed donations, sponsor a horse, and volunteer.
Interested in assisting veterans with disabilities? Contact Lonesome Dove at ldequestriancenter@yahoo.comor visit their website at www.LDequestriancenter.com
“Ride on, Veteran.” – Clint Arrington, LDEC Founder