On a fall day, the Central Oregon Wellness Ranch became a safe place for a remarkable group of women veterans & MST survivors. Each of them carried the weight of unique challenges from their military service, but for one whole day, came together in a safe and supportive space designed to promote self-care and connection with others.

The retreat offered more than just a break from the everyday—it was a chance to reconnect with themselves, to let go of the pressures they carried, and to build new, meaningful connections with others who truly understood their experiences. Through equine-facilitated activities, the women were able to build emotional and environmental awareness as they interacted with the horses, which helped them reflect on their own personal journeys. From mindful grooming and one-on-one time with the horses to guided self-care practices and reflective exercises, every moment was an opportunity for emotional release, self-discovery, and growth.

But perhaps what was most powerful about the retreat was the sense of community that blossomed among the women. Many of them had never before found a space where they could truly share their struggles and triumphs without judgment. There was a time towards the end of the retreat where one participant had a big release of emotions and the entire group really seemed to bond over shared experiences/content, found comfort in each other’s strength, offered support, and left with a renewed sense of community & belonging.

Thanks to the generous support of the Dyer Foundation, this retreat gave these women veterans more than just a day of healing—it gave them a safe place to open their hearts to the horses, reflect on their experiences, and find support in a community. For these women, it was a reminder that, no matter the challenges ahead, they are never truly alone.

Thank you for the beautiful pictures of me with the horses at the retreat. It was a great way to start my week with the beautiful memories that were created there with those beautiful horses.  I’d meant to express my appreciation sooner, for such a transformative day, that was so desperately needed for me. The wellness day came at a time in my life when I really needed the time  and  a safe place to reflect on my life’s direction. With the recent loss of my sibling  and school, my heart was very heavy. It was therapeutic for me to observe these majestic horses in a safe environment.  Helpful for me to ground myself in the moment with other fellow warrior women. To just breathe and know I was safe and ok!  Please express my appreciation to your excellent staff who helped me feel at ease !  Plus the gracious donors who also helped me and other Veterans attend financially.