QUITMAN — An area facility is hoping for some help in helping American military personnel suffering post-traumatic stress disorder.
Hopes and Dreams Riding Facility is seeking occupational therapists, physical therapists, and experienced horse riders to help with scheduled visits of veterans undergoing rehabilitation for PTSD, says Mike Randall, Hopes and Dreams founder.
Hopes and Dreams uses horses, camping, and the great outdoors to give affected soldiers a break from their memories of wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Randall, a Vietnam veteran, had three of his four sons serving in these wars.
Two returned with PTSD. Mike Randall witnessed how getting them back on the horses, back outdoors, released them from the pain and lethargy of PTSD.
His sons, wife and a few others help run Hopes and Dreams.
In October, members of the Warrior Transition Battalion of Fort Campbell, Ky., spent a weekend riding horses, and camping at Hopes and Dreams. Last weekend, members of the National Guard from the Valdosta area visited the Brooks County site.
On Dec. 5, the National Guard is scheduled to return. On Jan. 13-15, Fort Benning is scheduled to send soldiers. Fort Campbell is due to return in March. Fort Gordon is looking at a 2010 schedule date. Discussions have opened with Fort Stewart. The Florida National Guard may also eventually send personnel.
With more wounded warriors lining up, Hopes and Dreams could use extra hands to help operate the facility during the visits.
The January visit is crucial since it falls during the work week, and the rest of Randall’s family work regular jobs, as well as running the riding facility.
Volunteers are also needed to prepare for future visits. Randall has the materials for fencing a 15-acre area for the horses, but could use hands to install the fence.
He has equipment to light an arena for night riding but could use the donation of wiring and the expertise to install the equipment.
Already, Park Avenue United Methodist Church has donated the first cabin space for the riding facility.
In an article following the Fort Campbell visit, Randall said, “Some soldiers feel like they’re forgotten because nobody wants to help them. Well, we remember and we want to do what we can to help.”
Hopes and Dreams just needs more help to help more soldiers.
To volunteer for Hopes and Dreams, call Mike Randall at (229) 263-4773 after 3 p.m.
Local News
Related Photos
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Jeremy Randall rides with his father Mike Randall at the Hopes and Dreams Riding Facility in Brooks County.
Discussion
Helping soldiers
‘Wounded Warrior’ facility needs volunteers
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