Operation Horses Heal builds a sober-friendly, non-clinical community where Veterans, military members, and their families connect through relationship-based experiences working with horses and donkeys, fostering belonging, trust, and a renewed sense of purpose.
A future where all Veterans and military members have access to supportive communities that promote connection, wellbeing, and meaningful lives.
Operation Horses Heal is a Wisconsin-based nonprofit organization serving Veterans, active military members, and their families through equine-assisted learning, community events, and relationship-based experiences with horses and donkeys.
Founded by Rooster and Rachael Loucks, Operation Horses Heal began with a simple idea: create a welcoming space where people can slow down, connect, and feel accepted exactly as they are. What started as a small local effort has grown into a supportive community serving Veterans and families across Wisconsin, especially in rural areas where connection and resources can be harder to access.
At Operation Horses Heal, we believe community is at the heart of wellbeing. Whether someone joins us for a campfire, a community event, an equine-assisted learning session, or simply quiet time with the herd, our goal is to create opportunities for genuine connection in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Our programs are intentionally sober-friendly and non-clinical. We are not therapy, and participants do not need horse experience to join us. Instead, we focus on building relationships, fostering trust, encouraging authentic experiences, and creating space for people to reconnect with themselves, others, and the world around them.
Horses and donkeys have a unique way of helping people slow down, stay present, and experience connection without pressure or expectation. Through these interactions, participants often build confidence, reduce stress, strengthen communication, and rediscover a sense of purpose and belonging.
All services are provided free of charge to Veterans, military members, and their families, including spouses/partners/significant others, children, siblings, aunts/uncles, grandparents, and parents.
Today, Operation Horses Heal continues to grow through the support of volunteers, donors, sponsors, and community partners who believe in the power of connection, community, and compassionate support. Together, we are building a place where Veterans and military families know they are welcome, valued, and never alone.
Want to learn more about how isolation and loneliness impact the Veteran community? Click here to learn more.
