Connection Groups
We offer four distinct connection groups designed to support your individual mental health needs and provide a space for you to connect with others who may have similar experiences. These groups are tailored towards Caregivers, Youth, Young Adults, and Veterans & First Responders.
Caregiver Connections
Who is a caregiver? The answer is simple - it could be you! Whether you are caring for aging parents, looking after your children at home, working as a teacher, nurse, doctor, therapist, first responder, or caring for an ill spouse, the list goes on and on. We want to offer you a space where you can rejuvenate and connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Combining horse and human interaction creates a truly unique experience designed to increase your confidence and hope when it comes to caring for your loved one.
What you will get out of the day:
- Mindfulness Practice
- Connection Activities
- Self-Care Techniques
- Community Resources
This group meets quarterly and it is a free event.
Youth Connections
This program helps enhance relationship and communication skills, teamwork, symptom management, and much more!
Young Adult Connections
Join our young adult experience where you'll boost your confidence, find balance, work on your personal strengths all while making some new, long-lasting friendships and having some fun! This immersive group experience will also combine equine and human interactions. Equine interactions can assist with increasing confidence and hope when it comes to navigating the challenges of housing, educational systems, employment, and relationships.
Veteran & First Responders Connections
Come for one or two of the activities or plan to spend the day at the barn! These are FREE to Veterans, Active Duty Military, First Responders, Spouses, significant others, caregivers, and children (5 years and older). Reservations are required.
Coffee Hour: Join us for a morning of coffee and connection inside the HETRA Barn. While you’re here, you can enjoy watching our horses in action and see our beautiful facility.
Project Team (Adults only for this event please): The project team works with the HETRA staff and volunteers to tackle a facility project once a month. From painting benches or poles to gardening or landscaping, these projects help ensure our facility is ready for our participants.
Equine Experience Events: This unique experience is designed to engage the senses, learn different communication techniques, and discover what we can learn from our equine partners that can assist us in everyday life. This hands-on activity will have you engaged in activities with the horses such as Herd Dynamics, Leading, and Grooming. HETRA offers a comfortable and supportive environment tailored to meet your needs.
