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Healing Is Possible.  Growth Is Real.  Start with H.O.O.V.E.S.

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Proven Healing.
Real Results.

In 2024, H.O.O.V.E.S. partnered with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on a blind research study to measure how our 5-Day Healing Intensives impact veterans living with PTSD. The results were nothing short of remarkable!

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The Findings

Veterans began the program with an average PTSD score of 55 on the PCL-5 (scores above 33 indicate probable PTSD).

After just five days, the average score dropped to 25 — below the clinical cutoff.

53% of participants no longer met the criteria for PTSD.

At 120 days post-program, the average score dropped even further to 21, proving the healing wasn’t temporary — it lasted.

Participants also reported significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and negative mood, along with measurable increases in psychological flexibility and positive emotion.

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The Proof Is Clear

H.O.O.V.E.S. 5-Day Healing Intensives don’t just change lives — they restore them.

Every day, we witness the same truth our research confirmed:
Horses help heal the unseen wounds of PTSD and other trauma.

 

Join us in carrying this mission forward — until every veteran has the chance to reclaim their life.

14 Years
of Impact

800+
Veterans, Partners & Caregivers, Transformed

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When the Wounds Run Deep

 

Trauma changes everything. It can isolate, paralyze, and steal your sense of self. Whether from military service, abuse, grief, or loss — too many carry invisible burdens with no place to turn.

Healing begins when you’re seen, heard, and safe

 

At H.O.O.V.E.S., we don’t just help people cope — we lead them to Post-Traumatic Growth. Through rescue horses, peer-led Healing Intensives, and a strong community, participants realize a powerful truth: they aren’t broken — they’re becoming.

Our Mission

We bring veterans and rescued horses together in life-changing experiences, creating powerful bonds that heal, restore purpose, and empower new beginnings.

Our Core Values

Compassion: Serving with empathy and understanding.

Resilience: Empowering veterans to reclaim their

strength and hope.

Community: Building a network of support for veterans and their families.

Integrity: Upholding the highest standards in our mission and work.

H.O.O.V.E.S.
Healing Our Veterans

An award-winning documentary by Josh Nagel Productions

Directed by Amanda Held

What if healing looked different than you ever imagined?

 

If you’ve ever wondered what H.O.O.V.E.S. is truly about—what happens when veterans and horses come together for healing—here is the perfect time to see it for yourself.

 

Take a moment to watch our documentary and witness the stories, the breakthroughs, and the powerful impact that happens here every day. It’s more than just a film—it’s a glimpse into hope, resilience, and transformation.

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Misty Pryce, US Veteran

"I’ve suffered with anxiety and depression for 15+ years and I was lucky enough to find this horse-guided Healing Intensive in Ohio that accepted me into this month’s class."

Our partners are our lifeblood at H.O.O.V.E.S. Whether through financial contributions, providing food for Healing Intensives, professional services, or lending extra hands, each act of generosity fuels our ability to serve veterans. We are deeply grateful for their steadfast support, as it allows us to continue healing and empowering those who have given so much for others. Together, we make a lasting impact!

MISSION PARTNERS

Financial contributions support specific programs, activities, and essential services, as well as general operations like workshops, facility upkeep, and staff support. 

FOOD PARTNERS

Our food donors play a vital role in ensuring our veterans receive the proper nutrition needed to fuel their healing journey during our intensives. 

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS

Those who give their time and helping hands are the heart of our community. Their dedication and hard work create a supportive environment where healing and connection thrive.

Other Giving Options

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THE WARRIOR CHALLENGE

Sponsor a veteran through H.O.O.V.E.S. for just $5,000, by joining our simple and exciting crowd-funding campaign—it’s easier than you think!

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SAVE 22 CLUB

Want to help decrease the veteran suicide rate? Join H.O.O.V.E.S. Save 22 Club where your $22 monthly gift provides life-changing support.

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THE HEALING HERD FUND

All donations go directly towards sponsoring the diet, enrichment, and health of your chosen animal! You may make your sponsorship for any amount that suits you!​​

Email: info@hooves.us

Tel: (419) 930-7936

Hours: Tuesday–Friday 9 am–5 pm​

Location/Mailing Address: 

4055 Wilkins Road Swanton, OH 43558​

EIN: 61-1609848 

Riverbend Equine Therapy Services DBA as H.O.O.V.E.S.

 

We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit  organization. Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

We are proud to be a Gold Participant of Candid GuideStar, a tool that helps users find and learn about nonprofits.

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© 2025 by H.O.O.V.E.S.™ All Rights Reserved

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