An equestrian therapeutic program in Mendon is helping to make a difference in veterans and horses' lives.
Mission Mustang connects wild mustangs from Wyoming and Nevada with local veterans at the EquiCenter. It is one of several activities offered to people of all ages and abilities.
- Local marines will hike 22 miles on Saturday in Canandaigua to raise awareness about veteran suicide.
- The VA says 22 veterans commit suicide every day.
- Funds from Saturday's event will support Mission Mustang.
"It is not just the horses out here, we have veterans programs that involve farming and wellness," said Veterans Affiairs Coordinator at EquiCenter, Paula Burgin. "'Cooking with Heroes' does farm-to-table meals, and then of course we have the therapeutic riding program for veterans as well. So it is a little piece of what we do out here, but it is a huge impact on the veterans and their lives. I bet probably most would say an impact on their families as well. We all know how important a support system is."
The program's six horses are paired with 10 veterans.
"The first lesson you are stressed out and you are anxious and you aren’t sure what’s going to happen," Marine Corps Veteran Brett Avery said. "But then you build that bond and then every week after that that trust and their bond is there and it happens quicker and it happens quicker."
Local Marines will hike 22 miles in Canandaigua on Saturday, May 18 to increase awareness about veteran suicide — which happens 22 times a day, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The "END 22 Hike" will benefit Mission Mustang.
For more information about suicide prevention resources available to veterans, click here.