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Earlier this month, Guiding Reins spent some time with the 2024 Paramedic Class of Blue Ridge Community College increasing awareness about how they can support the mental health wellness of first responders with their EAGALA certified program that utilizes the assistance of equines. The high-stress, high-risk environment and frequent exposure to traumatic events first responders’ face regularly, affect their well-being and long-term psychological health. First Responders in WNC and Upstate SC don’t have to face the stress and trauma alone. 

Founded in 2018, Guiding Reins supports first responders, frontline workers, military veterans, and their families affected by trauma with equine-assisted peer to peer support, small group and one on one opportunities to learn how to heal from working with horses along with online resources. Services are provided at no charge at host farms in Mill Spring, NC and Campobello, Columbia and Greer, SC with the support of donations, sponsorships and grants. Program registration for the first quarter of the new year opens January 8th, space is limited.  Learn more @ guidingreins.org.

 

Submitted by Diane Prewitt