Lottery dollars help fund veterans’ mental health initiatives
Solid Ground Equine Assisted Services
One of many projects offered by ODVA through the “Beyond the Military Uniform” program
Solid Ground Equine Assisted Services
Solid Ground Equine Assisted Services in Klamath Falls is helping veterans build confidence, resilience, and wellness through hands‑on work with horses. Its mission is to inspire and empower veterans and others to overcome challenges through equine‑centered activities.
Supporting Veterans’ Mental Health
Solid Ground serves anyone who could benefit from connecting with horses, including veterans. Programs like adaptive riding, equine‑assisted learning, and specialized veteran support are designed to promote emotional balance and a renewed sense of purpose. With a focus on connection, movement, and calm environments, Solid Ground creates space for veterans to rebuild trust, reduce stress, and reconnect with themselves at a comfortable pace. It’s part of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) “Beyond the Military Uniform” program, a menu of services supporting veterans’ mental health. The ODVA awarded funds generated by the Oregon Lottery to help several programs — including Solid Ground — fulfill this important mission.
Did You Know…?
Many programs like Solid Ground use the term “animal‑assisted services” (or in this case, “equine-assisted services”) instead of “animal therapy” because the term more accurately describes what these programs offer. Not every session is clinical or run by a licensed therapist, and the work with animals often goes beyond traditional therapy—it can include wellness activities, emotional support, skill‑building, and connection with a calm, grounded environment.
Solid Ground’s use of “equine‑assisted services” keeps things clear and inclusive, helping people understand that the benefits are real and meaningful, even if the program isn’t delivering medical treatment. It’s a welcoming term that fits the wide range of ways horses — and other animals — can support veterans’ mental and emotional health.
Beyond the Military Uniform
Tragically, Oregon’s veteran and service member suicide rate is 40% higher than the national average. A recent study found that a lack of access and use of health care is one of the most significant factors contributing to this situation.
In response, the ODVA has implemented a program called “Beyond the Military Uniform.” Its website compiles mental health services, supports and resources available to veterans across Oregon. In addition to animal-assisted services like Solid Ground, the website features many indoor and outdoor activities to help veterans connect, build community, and regain a sense of purpose. The offerings are truly extensive and offer something to appeal to any Oregon veteran — check it out!
Healing with Animals
For many veterans, time spent with a responsive, nonjudgmental animal creates a grounding experience that eases tension and opens the door to healing in a way that feels approachable and supportive rather than clinical.
Animal‑assisted services have shown real promise for veterans dealing with isolation, stress, and anxiety. Research suggests that working with animals—especially horses—can offer short‑term reductions in PTSD, depression, and stress symptoms, while giving veterans a sense of connection and calm they may not find in traditional clinical settings. Equine‑assisted programs can help veterans reengage socially, build trust, and experience meaningful emotional relief.
If you’re not in the Klamath Falls area, check the link to “Beyond the Military Uniform” (above) for other animal-assisted programs in Oregon.
Veterans, You Are Not Alone
While animal-assisted programs can be a powerful part of healing, they are only one piece of a much larger support network for Oregon veterans. No matter where you are in your journey there are compassionate, veteran‑focused resources you can access immediately.
If you need someone to talk to, the Military Helpline, operated by Lines for Life, offers free, confidential support by phone, 24/7, for veterans, service members, and their families. You don’t have to be in a crisis to call, and you don’t have to navigate things alone. A trained specialist who understands military life will listen without judgment and help connect you with resources that can make a difference. Call 1‑888‑457‑4838 to connect today.
How Your Lottery Play Helps Oregon’s Vets
In 2016, Oregon voters passed Ballot Measure 96, directing a portion of lottery funds to veteran services. The new funding helped empower the ODVA to better connect Oregon veterans with the services they earned, including a wide range of mental health services and resources. When you play Oregon Lottery games, you help our veterans build a strong and stable foundation as they move forward in civilian life.
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