Saddles for Soldiers is a program designed specifically by Shadow Hills Riding Club to assist United States Veterans and their families cope with the traumas and stressors returning from combat, long term depression, reestablishing life skills and readjustment into civilian life by the use of horses.
PSA Program Chair, Bonnie Spence says, “I am very proud to announce great news for the much-honored WIF PSA Program. We are launching distribution for our “Saddles for Soldiers” PSA. This program, run by the Shadow Hills Riding Club, is specifically designed to help veterans cope with long-term depression and re-establish life skills after returning from combat to civilian life.
The guidance of horsemanship professionals and the support of a mental health practitioner provide a comforting environment where soldiers can heal emotionally and physically from the emotional scars and stress of combat. The human/animal bond is often a first step in reintegration to social norms for soldiers adjusting to life back in the U.S.
“We owe so much to the men and women who have served our country. Awarding ‘Saddles for Soldiers’ a WIF PSA in a small way allowed us to say thank you.”
The PSA was written, directed and produced by WIF members Vickie Sampson, Madelynn Amalfitano and Gwenn Smith. WIF PSA Production Program Co-Chair Tobie Loomis served as executive producer.