EQUUS Foundation For The Love of Horses
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May 20, 2024

Recognizing the Impact of Horses on Veterans with Back on Track Grants

The EQUUS Foundation's motto, "For The Love of Horses" drew Back on Track USA CEO, James Ruder, to the EQUUS Foundation to design a program that recognizes the significant impact of horses on the lives of people – especially veterans and their families.

Back on Track's therapeutic products help to achieve a more active and comfortable life for people, pets, and horses by combining modern textile technology with traditional Chinese medicine, which is supported by scientific studies.

Horse Stars Hall of Fame Inductee Staff Sergeant Reckless
Staff Sergeant Reckless (1949-1968)
Horse Stars Hall of Fame Inductee
Photo courtesy of United States Marine Corps
"Horses have performed multiple roles throughout military history; they've been used for transportation, reconnaissance missions, cavalry charges, packing supplies, and communications. And—when taught to kick, strike, and bite—they became weapons nearly as deadly as those their riders were wielding. War horses also had a potent psychological impact on men in battle—their powerful presence could boost morale and courage or instill uncontrollable fear in enemy troops."

Today, horses continue to "boost morale and courage" by helping veterans and their families recover from the traumas of war, and overcoming a fear of horses can be an important first step on the road to recovery. As horse lovers know, not only are horses tremendous athletes, they are incredibly sensitive to energy and intention and are powerful teachers, healers and inspirations. We applaud those who help strengthen the bond between horses and people - giving both a way to shine together.

The EQUUS Foundation would like to express its appreciation to Back on Track for establishing the Back on Track Veteran Services Grant program to provide needed funds to deserving organizations that provide Equine Assisted Services to veterans and the family members of veterans.

EQUUS Foundation Back on Track Veteran Services Grants

The Back on Track Veteran Services Grant program is unique in that grant recipients will receive a $500 grant to be used to support the care of the equine they nominate that provides these services. A minimum of $4,500 will be awarded in 2024. The online grant application will open on September 15 and close on October 15. Only those organizations that have received the EQUUS Foundation Guardian designation are eligible to apply.
ABOUT EQUUS FOUNDATION: The EQUUS Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity established in 2002, is the only national animal welfare charity and accrediting body in the United States that is 100% dedicated to equine welfare and with the dual mission to protect America's horses from peril and strengthen the bond between people and horses. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Contact the EQUUS Foundation, Inc., at 168 Long Lots Road, Westport, CT 06880, Tele: (203) 259-1550, E-Mail: mail@equusfoundation.org. Visit:  Visit equusfoundation.org.