KnowingHorse at Folly Farm wants to provide mental health services to first responders, specifically members of law enforcement, who could benefit from what we provide. We need external funding to make this happen for departments in Orange, Chatham or Alamance counties, NC.
On an everyday basis first responders face the most difficult of life situations. They may feel so stressed they are always on edge, sometimes frustrated or angry, disconnected and even isolated. Through thoughtfully and professionally facilitated experiences with horses, these public servants are invited to slow down, feel supported, and reconnect with themselves.
Our work partnering with horses offers first responders a space to decompress, Participants can experience a sense of calm, an increased openness to connect and a shift in how they relate to their families, co-workers and the people they serve. They feel seen, have hope that things can be different and are more willing to seek further support.
This matters right now because law enforcement and other first responders repeatedly deal with difficult situations, sometimes while being the recipient of overt hostility from the people they serve. Over time, some may become more reactive and less effective in their work. They may withdraw from family and friends. They may suffer alone, and the cumulative nature of their experiences risks mental health issues like depression, alcohol use and suicide. Because there is reluctance to seek traditional talk therapy, and because there is a concern about how they may be viewed by others, first responders may be struggling alone. Our work partnering with horses offers an alternative to traditional therapies, providing a transformative experience and allows them greater capacity to do their job effectively.
Donations support our program designed to serve these essential workers.
Your donation makes this possible. It supports a three hour group experience partnering with horses on the ground, and individual sessions for at risk officers so that our law enforcement community feels the support they deserve.
