Veterans MeetUp – Reconnect. Relax. Belong.

Veterans MeetUp takes place on Saturdays:

October 3rd, November 7th, and December 5th, 10:00 – 11:30 am

The Veterans MeetUp is a free, low-pressure social opportunity designed to allow Veterans to connect with others and decompress in nature while interacting with our rescued horses.

Why Veterans Come

To reconnect with fellow Veterans who understand the military experience
To step away from the demands of everyday life for a couple of hours
To enjoy time outdoors away from daily stress
To experience the calming presence of horses
To find a place where they feel understood

What You’ll Find

Casual conversation with fellow Veterans who “get it”
A welcoming, judgment-free atmosphere
Time with our horses in a peaceful setting
Coffee, camaraderie, and connection

No Expectations

No pressure
No horse experience required
Come as you are

Never Been Around Horses?

Perfect. Most of our Veterans haven’t either. There is no riding, and no horse experience is necessary!

There is SOMETHING about the outside of a horse that is GOOD for the inside of a man.

-Winston Churchill

Downloadable Files

Barn Rules

Property Rules

Mending Hearts,
One Stride at a Time

Mending Strides Ranch is the premier equine-assisted psychotherapy establishment in the Charlotte Metro area, committed to creating a sanctuary for individuals facing the impacts of trauma, abuse, and emotional obstacles. Our approach involves guided experiences with equine-assisted therapies that are specifically tailored to enhance mental well-being, build confidence, and find more joy in life.

Our Programs

6 Benefits of Equine-Assistance Therapy

Improved Confidence

Successfully navigating the tasks involved with Equine-Assisted Therapy helps instill a sense of resilience and achievement among participants, which boosts their confidence.

Better Communication Skills

Working with horses encourages non-verbal communication, such as body language and subtle emotional cues, that improves communication skills with others.

Trust

Participants learn to build a bond with the horses based on trust and mutual respect, which carries over to other areas of their life.

Connection

Building a relationship with a horse requires trust, patience, and mutual respect. Through these interactions, individuals can develop skills for building and maintaining healthy connections with others in their life.

Growth

Through regular interactions with horses and the therapeutic process, individuals may gain insights into their strengths, values, and personal identity to help them grow as a person.

Self-Acceptance

Interacting with horses in a therapeutic setting creates a safe and supportive environment where individuals can feel accepted and valued for who they are.