COMRADES

At Strides to Victory offers transformative programs that bring Veterans and horses together to support the transition from military to civilian life. This journey can be challenging rebuilding relationships, rediscovering purpose, and establishing a new sense of normal often requires both courage and guidance.

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Through the unique experience of working with horses, veterans learn to navigate life’s complexities with greater confidence. Horses communicate through body language and emotional awareness, offering powerful lessons in relationships, goal setting, creative thinking, and decision-making.

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Our dedicated staff leads small groups of Veterans through a powerful 10-week program designed to inspire meaningful, lasting change. Participants may experience:

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• Better control over symptoms of PTSD

• Improved emotional self-regulation

• Strategies to reduce harmful stress

• Awareness of “good” stress that energizes and motivates

• Renewed ability to reconnect with family and friends

• Openness to new opportunities and personal growth

• Clarity in setting and expressing intentions

• Comfort in being surrounded by others who understand

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First responders, including police officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel, can also benefit greatly from this work. While they receive extensive tactical training, the development of soft skills such as empathy, communication, and emotional awareness is often overlooked.

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These skills are essential in diffusing tense situations, especially during domestic calls or when working with youth. Horses naturally teach these qualities, helping first responders strengthen their interpersonal effectiveness on the job and at home.