Impact...

Arica joined our Veterans Program in the Summer of 2022 after moving to Connecticut with her family from Washington DC amidst COVID. After serving three years in the Army as a Unit Supply Specialist, Arica was excited for the opportunity to explore her fascination with horses hands on. Though she had minimal prior equine experience, her enthusiasm to learn from and with the horses was immediately apparent. On day one of the program, Arica became teary eyed and shared that as a Veteran and mom of a four-year-old, she so rarely gets to do things for herself – especially activities that present the chance to feel such a deep connection. As she explored her assigned horse, Candy, spectators were impressed with how readily she connected and found Candy’s itchiest spots. After participating in several Veteran specific opportunities, Arica shared “the encouragement, patience, and confidence staff showed, [it] allowed us to believe in our capabilities... High Hopes provided the safe, fun, nurturing space I needed. As Veterans return home, it can be difficult to find meaningful opportunities to

...on Animals

By Holly Sundmacker, Equine Operations Director