Spring Reins of Life Inc.

Love the atmosphere. The animals are beautiful and have such caring spirits. The owner is very passionate and caring.

Amazing horses, amazing people, amazing work. This non-profit is utterly incredible in all the work they do. Forever a core and important part of our community.

i had an amazing time. the staff are kind and treat the animals well, the volunteers are friendly and the animals are just so cute. definitely recommend this place for anybody struggling with any issues. 10/10

Spring Reins of Life has offered life changing results to many Veterans. They help Veterans heal from trauma and process what moving forward in life looks like. The welcoming environment at the farm creates an instance sense of calm and peace for the Veterans.

I am a volunteer with SROL. I get to witness the behind the scenes work, and actually magic, that takes place between the clients and horses/donkeys. I am very grateful to be able to give of my time (after driving over an hour to get there after work) to be a part of this organization and the profound work they do. Kim White

As someone who has suffered from many traumatic experiences, I would never want others to feel the way I did. I've always loved animals and have seen the magical impact they can have on humans. I have experienced it myself.
As a board member, I can help others experience that magic.

Truly dedicated to the right causes and inspiring hope along the way.

I wanted to volunteer and spent a great deal of time looking for the right organization.
It was a blessing to come upon Spring Reins of Life.
CC was warm and inviting and provided me with the history and introduction to all of the therapy animals. I was hooked.
I have been volunteering for months and it keeps getting better and better. The more time you spend interacting with the horses and donkeys, the more you get to see their personalities.
Such an awesome experience and it's something I look forward to every week!

Crystal S.

I've volunteered at Spring Reins of Life and it's a great experience! I know the work this organization does and it's amazing. They've been through some hard times, but they always bounce back with grit and determination! Their dedication to the work they do with veterans is above and beyond, and I believe they are so deserving of support! The work with veterans and the animals together is a beautiful thing to see. They do a phenomenal job with the most deserving people!

While I've only been affiliated with the Spring Reins of Life organization for a brief period, the positive impact and value to all involved is immediately evident. I'm absolutely amazed at the dedication and commitment of the staff and leadership towards both the clients and animals. My son is an active member of the military and it's wonderful to know that there is a dedicated organization like SRoL out there ready to help and support our military personnel. While my contributions are limited, it's rewarding to support such a positive and helpful organization.

I have been associated with SRoL for 10+ years. Its Board consists of non- compensated dedicated individuals who believe in the mission of SRoL. Many individuals have and continue to benefit from the services it provides. Almost 100% of monies donated go into program and related activities. I strongly urge you to support SRoL.

The work that Spring Reins of Life do is sacred, healing, life changing, and life saving work. It's as unique and as special as EVERY being on their team. They heal and help the world in such a beautiful, peaceful, special way.

As a nurse and volunteer I can’t say enough about how I feel about this facility, but I will try.
The animals are gifts from Heaven and help people heal in ways our “health care” system could never.
The volunteers are angels walking the earth and CC is patient, kind and a ferocious advocate of this work. It’s the perfect combination of bravery and love.

I am an advisor of a local club that volunteers at Spring Reins of Life. This is a wonderful organization that provides a valuable service to people with trauma. Whether we are helping to weed, replant grass or clean the barn, it is always an enjoyable day. The students love visiting with the many animals at the farm and often times start to volunteer on their own in addition to events with the club. We are so lucky to have a connection with this worthwhile organization.

I had volunteered at SROL this summer with a few of my friends and it was a great experience. The farm allowed us to take part in tasks that we weren’t particularly familiar with, such as cleaning up the horse waste. Overall it was a great experience that helped me learn new things while also helping SROL.

Such a cool learning experience about how clover is very sugary for horses and we pulled gramma and planted it in the fields to take over the clover. This is a wonderful barn and the owner is so friendly.

This barn is doing wonderful work for trauma survivors. I am a volunteer in the fields which I have gained much knowledge of. How clover is very high in sugar, but gramma is the perfect snack for the horses to stay healthy. I learned to get rid of clover through the fields, and transplant grasses. It is always a relaxing experience helping at SROL and I know I am returning the good to these horses.

The horses, donkeys, and chickens are very friendly. I enjoyed feeding and looking after all the animals.

I have been volunteering with my 2 daughters at SROL since May 2021. It has been so much fun learning about this herd and helping to care from them each week. Not only is volunteering at SROL a priceless opportunity to spend time with my teenage kids but it is an incredible honor to help support such an important program. Every time I am with the horses, it humbles me to see the endless love and caring in their eyes. It is truly amazing to know and work alongside CC. She will teach you anything and everything you’d like to know about horses and Eagala. She is one in a million. Icing on the cake - the donkeys provide a guaranteed comedy show each day!

Some very special animals provide therapeutic presence and social-emotional learning for children and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, and more. The horses (and the people!) are true professionals. If you just don't want to talk about your problems anymore, try getting in the ring with the horses at this EAGALA program and watch your life change. Bonus: there's a resident rooster who will greet you with open wings.

I signed my granddaughter up to volunteer at Spring Reins of Life and we both worked hard to clean up the farm and feed the horses and donkeys. We had a great time and could clearly see the passion CeCe has for the animals and the therapeutic connections they provide. Each time we went we had a wonderful experience and plan to make volunteering at the farm part of our ongoing service to the community.

When I moved to New Jersey from NYC I was lonely and had no real direction. When I found SRoL I became alive again. The farm has given me the happiness of being with animals, that were not only beautiful, but most importantly served a purpose that only horses can fulfill. To know that these animals helped people in need made me feel proud that I can be part of this experience.

If you are a person who loves being around animals in a beautiful, bucolic setting then I highly recommend this volunteer experience. Or...if you are a person who maybe isn't into being around animals, but wants to lend your skills in supporting an organization that helps veterans, at-risk teens and others struggling with anxiety and PTSD, then this is the gig for you. I have been volunteering at Spring Reins of Life since January of 2022. Aside from donating regularly to help support the care and feeding of the herd, I go in once a week and help out with chores--feeding, watering, grooming, mucking and turning out the horses. I don't sit in on the therapy sessions, because of HIPA laws, but I do get to spend lots of time talking with the director about all the wonderful, life-changing moments that these very special animals and human guides have brought to pass during therapy sessions. Literally hundreds of humans have been brought back from some very dark places, working through deep trauma, depression and emotional difficulties with the aid of four very intuitive horses, three donkeys, some goats, a cat a chicken and some very gifted humans. As much as I enjoy hearing about the many success stories that have happened here, I especially enjoy interacting with the animals, several of which have, themselves, been rescued from the brink of disaster. Donating to and volunteering at Spring Reins of Life has been an incredibly fulfilling and enriching experience, and something I look forward to doing for a very long time.

Signing our daughter up to volunteer with Spring Reins of Life in 2018 has proven to be one of our best decisions as parents.
Since day one, she's been welcomed, supported, and encouraged by the wonderful CC and team. She always looks forward to the work, no matter the season or weather, and ends each session feeling happy and satisfied that her contribution matters.
CC is a true expert in her field and shares her knowledge generously. The work the herd does literally saves lives and we've been privileged to hear testimonials from current and ex-clients to this effect.
Volunteering with Spring Reins of Life continues to be an important part of our daughter's life and development. We'll always be grateful to them and support them.
Thank you, CC and the herd!
Leigh and Tim Mulligan

I was an intern for this organization over the summer and it was so much fun being able to document videos and pictures that portrayed the huge impact these animals have in the community. This is truly a beautiful concept and the organization does so much for those who struggle and I encourage those who may need it to try and give them a shot!

Having personally experienced the ongoing healing power of relationships with equines I am aware of the great therapeutic effect they have on the Veterans and others served by this great organization. The professionals, as well as all the equines, of Spring Reins of Life are very dedicated to those that have so dedicated themselves to the service of our Great Nation as well as all the others that also participate.

Great organization that promotes healing to veterans and at-risk youth using horses and donkeys. I volunteered with a group of co-workers from The Starbucks Coffee Company for the community. Immediately we were put to work cleaning cobwebs, pulling weeds, and other assigned tasks. The Executive Director and her staff are caring, knowledgeable and professional. The horses are beautiful animals, especially Dane. We are planning to return to the barn to help fulfill SRoL's mission.

I’ve known Christianna Capra 50 years.
Christianna’s commitment to make the world a better place started long before Spring Reins of Life. God bless you Christianna the stories you tell of mucking in below freezing temperatures through your struggles and toughest times can only lead the good times.

Straw’s story and legacy changes lives.

You made it happen Chris.❤️

Congratulations.

A great place to be! Wonderful experts in equine therapy that truly care and want to do the work. Extremely caring environment, that you will learn a lot at! All the animals are lovely to work with as well! One of my favorite places to be, I could be here everyday if I could!

I came to the SRoL farm with little experience working with horses, and even less experience working on a farm. However, within months I got to know these horses as intimately as you would a friend. Not only was I taught about the anatomy and behavior of these animals, but I began to understand who they are as living beings. I find great fulfillment in volunteering every Saturday morning, and I cannot count the amount of times coming to the farm has brightened my mood on a rainy day. CC is incredibly skilled, and it shows in her work, intuition, and thought process. I would highly recommend SRoL to those I know!

I've volunteered with Spring Reins of Life on two occasions so far and I can't wait to go back. The passion that CC brings to her work is infectious and I was so moved and inspired hearing about how her horses have helped children and veterans. I look forward to volunteering in the future knowing that my help enables CC and her team to bring positive change to so many lives.

As a woman Marine Corps veteran with severe PTSD, MST, suicidal ideation, and a history of severe self harm, I have been fortunate to experience the healing that happens through Spring Reins of Life (SRoL).

I attended the Equine therapy programs first through the Women’s Treatment Unit at the Lyons VA on a monthly basis and subsequently through an 8 week program veteran group.

The SRoL equine herd, with the help of facilitators Christianna Capra (CC) and Dr. Maria Katsamanis (Dr. Maria), saved my life. Not figuratively but literally. I would not be alive if it was not for the healing that occurred in this unique psychotherapy environment.

My PTSD symptoms at the time left me feeling anxious, damaged, numb, empty, angry, and suicidal, to name a few. Then I met a horse named Molly. She was the first sentient being who interacted with me because she wanted to, not because she was obligated to. That continued interaction and developing relationship helped to gradually change my perspective to one of “maybe there is something in me that is still good or worthwhile”.

I continued to attend the therapy sessions with the herd and with the help CC and Dr. Maria’s guidance, I began to slowly start to feel for the first time in several years. The suicidal ideation slowing began to go away, my anxiety was gone while I was with the horses, and I was able to feel love for Molly and my 12 year old son again. I started to feel HOPE for the first time in at least 5 years. I cannot explain it exactly but horses are healing creatures. They see you, not your symptoms hiding who you are.

The environment at SRoL is nurturing, laid back, and fun (when appropriate). I was immediately at ease when I arrived, I was never pushed to do anything I was not comfortable with or did not want to do. I had one bad experience horseback riding years prior to attending equine therapy and was absolutely terrified of them. CC was instrumental in explaining the basic rules of interacting with horses in a way that I could understand, feel comfortable, and keep myself safe. I trusted Dr. Maria immediately, inherently understanding that she would never judge me, anything I did, or shared about my past actions or current feelings. I very quickly came to trust CC as well.

What I thought was the end of the road for me, turned out to be the beginning of a very rewarding recovery process. I will forever be grateful that SRoL available when I so desperately need this therapy.

The work done by SRoL is nothing short of inspiring. This is a great nonprofit organization with a fantastic mission. The volunteers, board, and Executive Director, CC, in particular, are all people who truly care about helping to heal those affected by grief or trauma. The positive impact to the community and people they serve, is immeasurable. This is a five star organization all around.

SRoL does very compassionate, inspiring work: helping to heal those whose lives have been affected by deep grief or trauma. I'm a volunteer, and it's an incredibly rewarding experience for me.

I have had the pleasure of attending a number of workshops at SROH. The leaders are caring, knowledgable and professional. The horses are nothing short of magical.
This type of therapy should be available to anyone who can learn and grow by being in the presence of a horse.

I am a volunteer with Spring Reins of Life and consider myself so fortunate to be able to contribute to an organization that changes the lives of trauma survivors. The volunteers and the horses are dedicated and amazing, as are the clients who take the chance to improve their lives.

Spring Reins of Life (SROL) is a fantastic organization that really gives back to the community and the people that need it the most. Therapy and processing of trauma is not a one size fits all approach and SROL provides a unique and effective service where other modalities may lack. I've seen and met personally the people whose lives were not just positively impacted, but forever changed because of what they experienced at SROL.

I am not a recipient to the benefits that Spring Reins of Life offers. I am a volunteer and have been helping with their events for over six years now. I have seen first-hand on many occasions the IMMEDIATE impact the horses have with veterans. Here is an example. At the most recent Open House and Annual Demo Day, CC and her staff selected four veterans from the crowd to join her where the horses were. The horses were off in the distance. CC told the veterans to choose any horse they desired and just try to become acquainted with the animal. At first, when each veteran approached a horse, the horse would walk or run away. As this was going on, CC explained to the crowd the process of how these horses and veterans get to know each other. How the horse 'senses' the fears and emotions that the veterans may have. After approximately 20 minutes, each veteran had his selected horse standing right by his side and not moving! It totally blew me away! And I've been privy to these demos for quite some time now, and each time I see it, I am touched. THIS PROCESS WORKS! Any and all veterans who need help coping with their daily life should seek out this FREE and amazing service offered by Spring Reins of Life

I became a participant when I heard about the program being offered at a monthly Rolling Thunder National meeting. I spoke to CeCe Capra, the angel behind this particular program, stepped into the arena with four loose horses I'd never seen before. I hadn't been around horses since I was about 11-12 years old and then only briefly. To say it was intimidating about sums up the first few minutes but soon I saw there was no signs of danger. I was able to approach these animals and see what would happen. I felt a particular attraction to a thoroughbred named Syriana, called her Syri for short. I know the breed to be high strung. I remembered as a kid watching all the western hero's and being amazed at their horses and how intelligent they were (the horses, not the actors so much). I envisioned all the wild bronco busting they did to saddle break and tame the animal but was also reminiscent of how the Indians were portrayed by socializing with their horses rather than "break" their spirit. I decided to try that approach. I just kept going to Syri and talking softly to her, trying to stroke her head. She didn't like that and mocked bit at me to let me know. I didn't let that bother me, I just kept walking up to her and talking to her. That went on for a few weeks, watching her be more calm and allowing me to stroke her neck (still not her face). After a few weeks I felt I was being accepted by the herd as they all would approach me for a pet or two. CeCe told me to watch them all the time. Try to feel what they might be feeling, communicating with them silently, becoming a "herd member". It was an awesome feeling. One session was about placing a horse in a halter. Patients 0, horses 6 (number of veterans in the group) and not a one was haltered. About the third week Syri would stand still with me talking to her and stroking her neck. CeCe said that she could be anywhere in that large arena we were in but she preferred to stay by me. At that point I realized something had changed and I felt a connection with Syri that's inexplicable. On the last session I was able to halter Syri with no problem, something CeCe said was remarkable as she normally gave anyone trying to halter her a hard time. I worked with Syri in tangent with another mare, a quarter horse, haltering them both and leading them around as they grazed. Syri is like number 2 in the pecking order after Dane, then comes Molly and then Mif. I had Mif with Syri and was grazing them toghether. They normally stay well clear of each other but I had them grazing side by side within inches of each other, another amazing feeling because they wouldn't be doing that unless they felt perfectly safe. After that I was just standing in the paddock with CeCe and the horses and Syri as standing next to me like a Labrador Retriever, wanting me to stroke her face (wonder of wonders) and neck. She nuzzled me and just showed such positive feelings. Her doing that unleashed a torrent of emotions from me. I can't describe it but I felt Syri told me it's ok to forgive myself for what I've been feeling , all the guilt I carry because of what I saw and had to do in combat 51 years ago. I could never talk about that to anyone but I didn't have to say anything to Syri, she just knew. Call me crazy but I experienced it and I'm sure so many other combat vets have also from this or similar programs. I will always carry this memory of Syri and CeCe being so intent on helping me in any way they could. What a worthwhile and indeed "magical" experience it was. Just so grateful to have experienced this remarkable program.

I have been volunteering with this program since April this year and have been nothing short of blessed in every way. I may be the volunteer but I am benefiting from my involvement more than I could ever repay in work. It is therapeutic for me just to be around CC and her healing herd, so I feel honored to contribute in a small way to the success of a program that helps such deserving groups humanity. our youth and our veterans deserve our best and SROL is among the high quality of services that we should provide to our fellow humans suffering from the darker sides of humanity. Thank you CC and the Herd for being such a beautiful source of healing light in this world!

Spring Reins of Life is a wonderful organization with whom to work. CC and the other volunteers were great and really pulled together to make events succesful and fun! I'm so glad I got to be a part of different aspects of the organizaton, from big fundraising events, to session demos, to helping with horse management. As someone in the veterinary field, I'm honored to have been able to help the Herd: the most amazing, gentle, wise group of animals I've ever has the pleasure of working with. Through Spring Reins of Life, the work CC and the Herd do is so important, and I hope she continues to make a positive difference in the lives of those that need and extra nuzzle from a fuzzy muzzle!

This organization makes such a difference in the lives of its clients. I have been on the At-Risk Youth Advisory Board for only a short period of time but it's something that I am so passionate about already. Talk therapy does not work for everyone and that is why the horses become great therapeutic tools in the lives of so many. You cannot hide emotions with these horses because they have the ability to mirror you, which helps clients to be true with how they really feel. They are truly amazing, healing animals.

It’s a long story how I found myself here, but I knew after that first volunteering day with Spring Reins of Life in April 2015 I wanted to come back. I was immediately drawn to the story of how SRoL came to be, the herd, the humans, and the client groups served. I felt that something special was happening here and I was eager to be a part of it. I believe animals posses tremendous healing qualities but these horses take that to levels that blow my mind. How they know what to do for these clients in each situation is nothing short of amazing and magical in my opinion. These sessions are impacting the clients on the deepest level, truly changing their lives and helping them grow and heal. It doesn’t get any better than that. The bigger this group gets the more clients can be served. I feel honored and lucky to be part of the SRoL volunteer corps in raising awareness for this important work, to help care for this very special herd and be surrounded by amazing passionate people.

I have been a volunteer with Spring Reins of Life for almost four years. The work the horses and people do is life saving! I have heard stories from countless clients about the way horses help heal them. I look forward to continuing to support this therapy.

Spring Reins of Life is an amazing organization. This nonprofit helps in a way that traditional therapy cannot. When words are too painful, this heartfelt arena can be just the setting where long lasting healing can begin.
Not only do the participants in the sessions receive healing, but also the volunteers and all who come in contact with the amazing herd report feelings of calm, centered, grounded and a sense of healing.
I have volunteered for 2 years, and I still can't wait to get there for my next visit.

I have been a volunteer with SROL for almost two years. The work that the horses (and humans!) do is incredible. We usually have an open house in the spring, which gives everybody the chance to see them work, up close and personal! So much hard (behind the scenes) work goes on with SROL. I know how much EVERY donation is greatly appreciated, and 90% of funding goes towards programming costs for trauma survivors. Nothing is wasted, and, luckily, labor is provided by volunteers. I cannot say enough good things about Spring Reins of Life. (as you may have noticed!!) Volunteering for SROL has helped ME in many ways, also.

While apprehensive when I first started volunteering, I quickly came to love this organization. With a leader who sacrifices so much in order to help children in need, its hard not to. Through equine therapy, SRoL has been able to help countless youth cope with the hardships in their lives and has made positive, lasting impacts on everyone involved.

Amazing nonprofit! Helps so many different people from all walks on life. The horses are absolutely brilliant and can leave you speechless.

SROL changes and heals hurting humans. By using on the ground exercises with their equine partners unlocks deep hidden issues. I have been blessed to see lives begin the healing process. To watch the magic unfold will bring tears of joy. Many thanks to Christianna and her equine team.

When I lost my husband and the father of our two girls, then 7 and 9 in June 2013, I was desperately seeking to find a grief therapist for my two girls who were deeply traumatized by the loss. However, when I started looking into children bereavement therapists, that were not traditional "talk" therapists. I found it extremely difficult to locate one. I even inquired through both mine and my late husband's companies Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and neither company could refer any alternative bereavement therapy other than the traditional "talk" counselors. I even went as far as asking a good friend of mine who is a high level HR executive at Pfizer and even he had a difficult time referring anyone to me. I was at a loss and knew I was looking for a needle in a haystack.

One thing I knew was that my children loved animals, so I started googling animal grief therapy methods. That's when I came across Spring Reins of Life. After reading about the co-founder who is a 9/11 widow, I immediately connected with her story and struggle to find a non-traditional approach to bereavement for kids.

When we went to the farm, at first, both girls were hesitant to work with the horses but within minutes, they adjusted to the most striking and gentle horses, Dane and Spring. An experience that made me a believer in this non-traditional approach was with my 7 year old. She was afraid to enter the pen at the first session but with the gentle coaxing and unending patience of CeC and Ro, she found the courage and went in. Once in, she immediately grew more and more confident in guiding the horse on her own. After that session, she started talking to me on the way home about her dad for the first time in months. This type of therapy amazed me as I saw my girls start to deal each week with the emotional loss of their dad, using no words but only expressing their feelings through these gentle creatures. Another experience was with my oldest daughter who was deeply traumatized by the loss and would not speak about it to anyone, not even me. Her only way to cope was by having major emotional outbursts and long crying fits. The week of her session, she had a tumultuous, emotional week with major ups and downs. When she went to equine therapy, she still had a lot of pent up emotions. As she entered the pen to try and lead Dane, the horse immediately ran swiftly around the pen, prancing up and down expressing major spurts of energy, and then when he finally settled down, he went right over to her. My daughter recognized how he felt and CeC talked to her about letting extra energy out and that maybe the horse could show her how to do that. CeC, Ro and I could see a “mirroring of my daughters emotional state”.

Both girls looked forward to going every week and made remarkable progress in being able to comprehend what happened and were able to take steps when ready to "talk" about their experience with me. Having a program like this is so important to families like mine and I am grateful they meet the needs of kids grieving. There are not many programs like this and they do an excellent job in taking the children where they are at in their grief and gently using the horses to help them cope using structured exercises at each session.

Thank you CeC and Ro, and thank you to the horses. We are indebted to you and this program!

Carolyn Alessi
Senior Public Policy Advocate
Nestlѐ Nutrition U.S

I am a Mental Health Professional (LCSW) that works with SROL. As an MHP I have seen horses help the at risk youth in so many different ways. The horses have helped these kids increase self confidence, honesty and empathy. In addition, many youth that we have worked with have said that this is one form of therapy they have really enjoyed and wish they could do more of this therapy!

I am a horseperson, and after reading about how horses can help veterans recover from traumas I needed to find out more. I then not-so-coincidentally stumbled upon an organization that does that kind of work practically in my own backyard! The day I met CC and the horses of Spring Reins of Life was electrifying, and I knew this was an organization I needed to be involved in.

The deep and powerful healings experienced by the many veterans, bereaved children, at-risk youth, and other struggling souls whose lives have been touched by the energy and hearts of the Spring Reins of Life horses bring tears to my eyes every time their stories are recalled (and also as I'm typing this). The horses help open up whoever they're near to a new level of awareness, compassion, gentleness, connection and love for themselves and others

As a volunteer, I thought I was trying to help the horses so they could help others, but they (especially Straw) reached deeply into my soul and revealed the love, compassion and healing they give so honestly and freely, and forever changed my life

Please sign up to volunteer, or donate any way you can, to help the Spring Reins of Life horses help those who need it most. Thank you

I was involved with an SROL fundraiser this year and look forward to many more. The talented and highly dedicated staff and well-trained horses provide opportunities for healing to veterans and their families and at-risk youth. It is powerful to witness the positive changes that result from this unique kind of therapy.

As a mental health therapist at Spring Reins of Life, 501c3 who works primarily with the Veteran population, I can attest to the powerful, profound, and humbling experiences that are often shared during therapy sessions. Incorporating horses as part of the treatment team allows for our Veterans to process their stressors (often related to anxiety/ PTSD, depression, and interpersonal relationships) in a non-judgmental, non-threatening manner. For many of the Veterans that we provide services for, they have difficulty in verbalizing their emotions; this setting allows them to work through these stressors in a respectful, empathetic, and supportive manner. When working with horses, they can be verbal or non-verbal- activities that are in alignment with their presenting issues and treatment plan are presented, thus allowing the Veteran to make the activity meaningful for them. As the therapist, we can point out things that occurred in session, and often they tell their story through the interaction of the horse; this can be especially beneficial for Veterans who have reached blocks in or are resistant to talk therapy. Just being the presence of a horse is often powerful for them because they have the ability to connect with a being (horse) eye-to-eye, building self-confidence, self-efficacy, and increasing emotional awareness. They have the power and control to embark on a personal journey of healing on their own terms.

I cannot say enough positive things about how Spring Reins of Life has been able to positively impact many Veterans. Presently we are able to provide free services to a VA Medical Center and Vet Center due to the generous support of local businesses and individuals. We at Spring Reins of Life have the hope, drive, and desire to reach as many Veterans as we can to provide free therapeutic services because we believe in the power of healing that horses can provide. After each session, the incredible stories these Veterans have shared of hope, resilience, and strength bring tears to our eyes.

We hope to be able to reach and support Veterans and their supports for years to come. There is a growing need for this experiential, real-time therapy- the answers may just be found through interactions with a horse!

I went to a demo about 2 1/2 yrs ago, curious about the connection between horses and healing from PTSD. I was immediately impressed by the power of this therapy and the passion of Spring Reins of Life's founder, Christianna Capra. I started volunteering with SROL and have loved every minute of it because we CHANGE LIVES. In fact, I believe wholeheartedly that this therapy SAVES LIVES. Perfect for those who won't or can't talk about their trauma.

Spring Reins of Life is an incredible organization that my daughter and I have been a part of for the last 3 years as both volunteers and as a board member. I never understood the relationship between horses and people until I witnessed first hand the positive impact that these animals have on humans in need of healing. I have seen war veterans smile, be at peace, children laugh and at risk youth feel compassion after these therapy sessions. The bond between horse and human is real. The dedication of both the staff and volunteers shows that the human spirit is till alive !!

I consider it an honor to volunteer with Spring Reins of Life because they have introduced their horses to many who have some kind of emotional instability in their lives and the effect is phenomenal!! Spring Reins of Life provides a way of expressing feelings outside a clinical setting by allowing veterans, at risk youth, and bereaved children to spend time with such gentle creatures. The “herd” exudes such a calm atmosphere in the ring that anyone who has contact with them always walks away with a better sense of well-being than when they first arrived.

"Spring Reins of Life" is absolutely the most amazing organization I have ever witnessed. This organization saves lives and gives hope to military personnel who have experienced massive trauma, SRoL helps children gain confidence in the most beautiful way. Christiana Capra is the most amazing in integrity, giving, caring, hardest working person I know. SRoL is a force for good in a world where allot of things just don’t make sense.

I've recently become involved with SRoL. From the moment I witnessed Equine Assisted Therapy I knew it was something special. I also realized that SRoL was something special as well. I am in awe if the work that SRoL does with both PTSD clients as well as with high risk youth. Working with horses is transformational. I am beginning a relationship with SRoL as a EAGALA certified Education Specialist and Equine Specialist. I'm interested in doing what I can to help SRoL continue its mission.

My daughter and I have been volunteering with SROL for 5 months and are always impressed with the organizers and other volunteers, as well as the horses. SROL is a wonderful organization that really makes a difference to individuals. I feel honored to be able to give a little to horses and an organization that gives so much to veterans with PTSD, children in distress and at risk youth.

My 13yro daughter volunteered several days a week this summer, mucking stalls, sweeping the barn, leading the horses outside...things I would not have thought she would want to do on her summer break. She begged to go! It revealed a side of her that iPads and cell phones couldn't touch. She was in touch with what matters in life, giving to others, the world needs to be compassionate and with SROL leading the charge, my sometimes self absorbed teen felt needed, and that made her shine! As I got to know the folks involved, I too found myself happily holding a broom in touch with the animals and the beautiful farm. It's a magical place doing amazing things for those who so desperately deserve it. By doing for others, we grew ourselves. And let's not forget the horses, or heroes as they are. Majestic and warm, always in awe to be around them and the extraordinary people doing great work at SROL!

I became involved with Spring Reins of Life when a loved one was diagnosed with PTSD. I followed his progress as he was treated by the VA. One day he told me about Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) being used to help his fellow veterans. He had attended a session and witnessed the profound effect it had on the group that he watched. I was fascinated that there was this kind of therapy available and it does not involve medications!!!! The clients will perform designated tasks with the horses - no riding involved. The relationship that is established with the horse is so uplifting for the vets. They come away from each session with new feelings and skills for use in their everyday lives.
Similar programs are available for at-risk youth and children in bereavement. The types of exercises vary for each program and are designed to help specific feelings and behaviors. Like the PTSD program, the children will see some immediate results starting in their very first session.
Since this is a 501(c)3 charity, all funding comes from the generosity of people and organizations like you. I give my time as a volunteer. I can't think of a better use for my time than this charity. Your donations will directly help ordinary people in extraordinary situations.

I have been involved with SROL for a year or more now, on both the military advisory panel and the fund raising committee. Having brought numerous veteran group to Hillsborough for therapy groups I can not express the dramatic effect it has had on everyone of them. They generally agree reluctantly to attend but by the close of a session their anxiety levels drop dramatically while simultaneously their level of trust skyrockets. Every-time I am at the Lakewood Veterans Center (fellow combat veterans) I am asked when can we go back. The program and it's results are indeed amazing as is the staff, I am very proud to be a member of the SROL team.

Spring Reins of Life (Horses, Humans and Healing) 501c3 is an EAGALA Model program in Central New Jersey offering EAP (equine assisted psychotherapy) to at risk / high risk youth, ptsd veterans and their families and bereaved children. Each of these areas are plagued by heavy trauma, and often times those who suffer a trauma experience either do not want to or cannot verbalize or talk about it. Working out these obstacles with the horses provides a safe environment to experience "present moment" and peace from the triggers. Anxiety levels are lowered just being in the same space with the horses and we begin (in the first session) to rebuild TRUST.

Spring Reins of Life is working with several at risk youth (teens) organizations such as Bonnie Brae, MYDC (Misunderstood Youth Development Center), New City Kids, Hunterdon Youth Services and recently just began a pilot program at the NJTS under the NJJJC for incarcerated youth. The beauty of working with horses is that they do not care if you have been in jail, dropped out of school, if you can read or not, if you are rich or poor. The only thing the horses seem to care about is honesty and authenticity, they will react and provide immediate feedback to any situation. Teens learn quickly that it will not work very well to lie, cheat, manipulate or bully a horse - so they must find other ways to accomplish their goals with the horse. It is very empowering and not readily forgettable when this join up occurs, and then there is a foundation to build upon.

With more than 23 suicides per day among veterans, something is needed as an intervention that works! EAP is effective for this population because it is pretty impossible to not become fully present with 1000 pounds coming toward you. There is immediate release of anxiety once a connection is made. In as little as one session (first visit) ptsd clients begin to build a foundation for trust, because a loose horse will require that to interact. Spring Reins of Life is the first (and currently the only) program in New Jersey to earn the "EAGALA Military Services Provider Certificate" (a CEU program qualifying our team approved to work with veterans with PTSD, TBI and MST).

Co-founded by MaryEllen Salamone, who is a 9/11 widow and believed strongly in the power of horses to help young children process grief and emotions that they may not have the vocabulary to express in words. Being with the horses allowed a way to find peace and complete acceptance for whatever you are feeling at the time. The honesty and non judgmental gifts from the horses allow a young child to accept and understand how emotions come on strong and may be confusing but that they will also pass. Grief is a lifelong process, not an event. The horses enable young children to find metaphors and coping skills for their loss.

Spring Reins of Life is run by volunteers, so nearly 90% of our fundraising efforts are appropriated directly to programming and services. There is a growing interest and a huge need for alternative intervention therapy in New Jersey for trauma survivors who do not want to or cannot "talk about it". The effects of severe traumatic experiences may never completely disappear, however the Horses and the EAGALA Model of EAP can provide individual coping skills and a toolbox of armor to identify, understand and handle triggers. Anxiety about frequency of triggers are also reduced. Horses can help to heal trauma to a level of management without medication.

Your tax deductible donation is greatly appreciated. For more information see our website SpringReinsofLife.org. Also see the site for EAGALA International at EAGALA.org (presence in all 50 states and 49 countries). Feel free to contact with any questions or for more information.

The answers to some of life's most complex issues just might come from...A HORSE!

Christianna Capra
"CC"
Co-Founder
Director of Equine Services
Spring Reins of Life, Inc.