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Healing • Growth • Connection
Our Programs
At EmpowerStride, we offer three distinct programs that provide opportunities for healing, growth, and connection through horse-centered experiences. Each program is thoughtfully designed to meet participants where they are, helping them build confidence, resilience, and meaningful relationships.
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12-Week Empowerment Series
The 12-Week Empowerment Series is the heart of EmpowerStride’s mission and the foundation of our equine-assisted learning programs. Designed for individuals who have experienced trauma, abuse, or significant life challenges, this structured program provides a safe, supportive environment where participants can rebuild confidence, strengthen emotional resilience, and rediscover their personal power.
Through guided, hands-on experiences with horses, participants engage in carefully designed ground-based activities that encourage reflection, problem solving, and personal growth. Horses respond honestly to human emotions and body language, providing immediate, non-judgmental feedback that helps participants develop self-awareness, trust, and emotional regulation.
Each weekly session includes intentional learning activities, group discussion, and reflective processing that allow participants to connect their experience with the horses to real-life challenges and goals. Participants learn valuable life skills such as communication, boundary setting, teamwork, leadership, and stress management.
Over the course of twelve weeks, many participants experience meaningful personal transformation. They develop stronger coping strategies, improved confidence, and a renewed sense of hope for the future. The consistent presence of the horses, combined with supportive facilitation, creates a powerful environment where healing and growth can take place naturally.
At EmpowerStride, the 12-Week Empowerment Series provides more than a program—it offers a pathway toward resilience, connection, and lasting personal change
Pony Connection Experiences
Pony Connection Experiences introduce children and youth to the powerful lessons horses can teach through fun, engaging, and hands-on activities. These experiences are designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and create meaningful connections between children and the miniature horses of EmpowerStride.
Through programs such as Mini & Me, youth camps, field trips, and special learning experiences, children interact with the ponies in a safe and welcoming environment. Participants learn about horse care, communication, and respect while engaging in activities that encourage teamwork, responsibility, and kindness.
Working with miniature horses allows children to practice important social and emotional skills in a way that feels natural and exciting. Activities may include grooming, leading ponies, obstacle challenges, and cooperative games that encourage children to problem-solve, communicate clearly, and support one another.
These experiences are intentionally designed to nurture confidence and self-esteem while helping children develop empathy and emotional awareness. The ponies offer immediate feedback and connection, helping young participants learn the value of patience, trust, and positive leadership.
Pony Connection Experiences often serve as a child’s first introduction to the healing and educational power of horses. For many children, these moments create lasting memories while building life skills that extend far beyond the barn.
HerdBound Workshops
Herdbound Experiences bring groups together through the powerful lessons of the horse herd. Designed for schools, teams, clubs, organizations, and community groups, these programs use experiential learning activities with horses to strengthen communication, collaboration, and leadership.
Participants engage in interactive, ground-based challenges that require teamwork, creativity, and thoughtful problem solving. Without riding or traditional horsemanship instruction, participants work alongside the horses to complete activities that reveal natural leadership styles, group dynamics, and communication patterns.
Because horses are highly attuned to human behavior and energy, they respond authentically to the actions of participants. This honest feedback allows individuals and groups to gain meaningful insight into how they communicate, cooperate, and support one another.
Throughout the experience, facilitators guide reflection and discussion that connect the activities with real-world relationships, workplace dynamics, or team environments. Participants often discover new perspectives on leadership, trust, and the importance of clear communication.
Herdbound Experiences are both engaging and transformative. By working with the herd, participants learn that strong communities—like strong herds—are built on awareness, respect, and cooperation.
Operation Stride Forward
Honor. Strength. Purpose.
At EmpowerStride, we believe that healing doesn't always begin with words. Sometimes it begins with a quiet moment, the gentle presence of a horse, and a place where you are welcomed exactly as you are.
Operation Stride Forward is a no-cost equine-assisted wellness program created to support veterans in finding connection, purpose, and renewed strength through meaningful interactions with horses. Whether you are adjusting to civilian life, managing the effects of military service, coping with stress, or simply looking for a peaceful place to reconnect with yourself and others, our farm offers an environment where healing can happen naturally.
Operation Stride Forward is ground-based and hands-on. No horse experience is necessary. Participants work alongside our horses through thoughtfully designed activities that encourage communication, trust, emotional awareness, problem-solving, and personal growth. Horses have an extraordinary ability to respond honestly to human emotions, offering immediate, judgment-free feedback that often leads to powerful moments of self-discovery and reflection.
Two Ways to Participate
Open Barn Wellness Hours
Not everyone is ready for a formal program—and that's okay.
Our weekly Open Barn Wellness Hours provide veterans with a relaxed, welcoming place to spend time at the farm. Visit with the horses, enjoy meaningful conversations, help around the barn if you choose, or simply sit quietly and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. There is no pressure, no expectations, and no agenda—just a community that understands the value of connection and belonging.
Empowerment Series
Our structured small-group program provides veterans with a supportive community while exploring topics such as:
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Building confidence and resilience
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Managing stress and emotions
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Developing healthy relationships
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Improving communication
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Strengthening leadership and problem-solving skills
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Rediscovering purpose and hope
Each session includes guided horse activities, meaningful discussion, and opportunities for personal reflection in a safe, encouraging environment.
More Than Horses
Operation Stride Forward is about creating a place where veterans know they are seen, valued, and appreciated. It is about building friendships, restoring confidence, and discovering that healing often happens one small step at a time.
Every veteran's journey is unique. Whether you are looking for personal growth, fellowship, emotional support, or simply a place to breathe, you are welcome here.
Together, we honor your service, celebrate your strength, and walk beside you as you continue to stride forward.
Because no one should have to walk their journey alone.
Please note:
Each participant must complete the Liability Release Form before working with our horses. You can download and bring with you, or copies will be available onsite. This form must be completed by parents/guardians for anyone under the age of 18.
Medical Release forms will be required for all 12-week Curriculum Participants. This form must be completed by parents/guardians for anyone under the age of 18.
All participants under the age of 18 must wear a helmet when working with our horses. Participants must wear close toed shoes while working with our horses.
Contact Suzy with any questions; most sessions and programs can be tailored to suit your needs and schedule.