H.O.O.V.E.S.: Healing Our Veterans

Why this film exists

H.O.O.V.E.S. (Healing Of Our Veterans Equine Services) runs five-day, horse-guided Healing Intensives for veterans, first responders, and their families — completely free, with travel funded from all 50 states. No diagnosis or referral is required.

The organization was founded by Amanda Held, a U.S. Air Force veteran who found her own way through post-traumatic stress with the help of a rescued mustang. That experience became the basis for a program now backed by a peer-reviewed study: participants have shown a 92% reduction in suicidal ideation, and 53% no longer met the clinical criteria for PTSD after five days.

The documentary follows that process directly — real participants, on camera, across a full Healing Intensive. It received a Best Inspirational Honorable Mention at the Cannes Film Awards and was recognized at the EQUUS Film & Arts Festival.

Fund a Veteran's Healing →Visit H.O.O.V.E.S. →