Combat veteran Patrick Benson knows all about the healing power of horses.
When he left the Army in 2004, making the transition from fire-fights to civilian life was difficult. But through his passion for horses, he found a way to not just reinvent his life and career, but help other veterans manage their post-traumatic stress disorder, adjust to post-military life and rejoin the workforce.
“Horses are the most underutilized tool out there and the reason is they're non-bias and they’ve already got a read on you before you even go up to them,” Benson says. “Horses teach veterans to be 100% open, vulnerable, and humble at the same time because if you're not, I will promise you, you will not gain trust, you will not be able to communicate effectively and lead that horse.”
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Founded in 2014 by Benson and his partners, husband and wife team Andy and Pat Brown, War Horses for Veterans is based in Stilwell, Kansas, and offers veterans and first responders an all-expenses paid, multi-day equine therapy, bonding, and career networking experience.
It’s a valuable tool for a workforce that historically faces challenges when it comes time to reenter workforce. With the jobless rate for veterans increasing to 6.5% last year, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, this untapped employee population is in need of greater assistance to connect them with the right employers who are eager to nurture their talent and benefit from their skill sets.
During their time on the ranch, veterans take part in training programs aimed at holistic wellness, decompression, and performance optimization. They receive individualized coaching, take part in barn chores that help them refocus their thoughts, and participate in mindfulness exercises.
“By the end of the first day, the vets are so exhausted because they had to work so hard at being present and reflect, and it's a lot to take in,” Benson says. “And by the third day we have guys and gals roping and jumping, doing spins and flying lead changes and these are people who have never ridden a horse. And what that does is provide such a sense of confidence.”
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Participating veterans are also connected with coaches and mentors, many of whom are former members of the military who are all too familiar with the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. The program invites employers to their events, giving veterans access to networking and job opportunities. Last year alone, War Horses for Veterans helped nearly 20 veterans with job opportunities.
“Everyone's different in their transition out of the military,” Benson says. “We’re building this network and connecting veterans with individuals that have navigated this process and who can mentor and coach them. Veterans are serviced-based individuals who want to work and accomplish a bigger mission.”
