Hope After Service, a groundbreaking 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is proud to announce its mission of bringing hope, healing, and renewal to veterans, retired racehorses, and communities nationwide. Founded by three dedicated disabled veterans – Ashton Strader, Robert Whitlow, and Craig Whitlow – Hope After Service is set to make a profound impact.
The genesis of Hope After Service began with a heartfelt conversation between Ashton Strader, Robert Whitlow, and Craig Whitlow, whose extensive background in horse racing, as an owner, breeder, and stallion manager, led them to envision a unique approach to supporting veterans with PTSD. This vision culminated in the creation of Hope After Service, headquartered in Shawnee, Oklahoma.
Hope After Service is pioneering a revolutionary partnership with the racing industry, acting as a retirement haven for retiring racehorses. These retired equine athletes will embark on a second career, and their transition is at the heart of Hope After Service's mission.
Veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and autistic children will benefit from the organization's therapy horse program. Specially selected retired racehorses, chosen for their gentle temperament, will undergo retraining to become trusted companions and therapists, offering solace and healing to those in need.
For the retired racehorses deemed too high-strung or hot-tempered for therapy work, Hope After Service has a noble plan. These equine athletes will be retrained for essential roles within the federal government and state and local governments. These roles encompass the United States Border Patrol, Department of the Interior (including forest rangers, wildlife officers, and game wardens), Bureau of Land Management, United States Army, and law enforcement agencies in cities such as New Orleans and New York City, among others.
Craig Whitlow, a lifelong horse racing fan and owner of Whipsaw Thoroughbreds, now serves as the Executive Director of Hope After Service.
He said: “Our vision is to contract with the government, providing a centralized location for training these horses to meet government standards. This streamlined approach saves the government valuable time, money, and manpower while allowing these retired equine athletes to find a meaningful second career. Moreover, they will serve our nation and communities, safeguarding our borders, aiding in search and rescue operations, and contributing to law enforcement's mounted units.”
Whitlow continued: “There has always been a profound connection between humans and horses. In today's world, where some may question the utility of retired racehorses, we believe in thinking outside the box. These horses have a wealth of untapped potential, and we are committed to proving their worth beyond the racetrack.”
Hope After Service invites individuals, corporations, and the community to join their mission of hope, healing, and renewal. Together, we can empower veterans, provide a second chance for retired racehorses, and build stronger, more connected communities.
The post Hope After Service: New Nonprofit Empowering Veterans, Retired Racehorses For A Brighter Future appeared first on Horse Racing News | Paulick Report.
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