Michael’s Foundation, Inc. celebrated a successful Equine Program Placement Party at Keeley Clark’s Al-Marah Arabian Sport Horses in Clermont. This ongoing program is dedicated to providing Veterans and their families with equine-assisted activities, offering wellness practices for managing stress, horsemanship and riding skills, and community support.
The Equine Program, which has become a cornerstone for Michael’s Foundation, is led by two accomplished riding instructors from Keeley Clark Lizano’s Staff, Aly and Josh Castleman, who bring a wealth of experience and dedication to helping Veterans through the unique bond between humans and horses.
Josh Castleman, an Army Veteran who served in Operation Enduring Freedom, is passionate about the healing power of equine activities. With his background as an Instructor at Heart of the Horse in Tucson, Arizona, Josh has witnessed firsthand the progress that individuals can make through equine-assisted learning and riding programs. He is currently pursuing PATH and EAGALA certifications, which will further enhance his ability to assist Veterans with disabilities and health limitations. Josh’s horse, Cheyenne, is also a key part of the program, offering participants the opportunity to connect with a horse that has a history of helping others.
Aly Castleman is a United States Dressage Federation (USDF) Silver Medalist and Multi-National Champion with a lifelong focus on dressage and equine education. Her experience with Al-Marah-bred horses and her history in the field of equine-assisted activities make her an invaluable asset to the program. As a former PATH instructor and member of the PATH International Higher Education Task Force, Aly is well-equipped to provide guidance and support to veterans and their families, fostering an environment of growth and connection.
Michael’s Foundation’s Executive Director and Certified Yoga Therapist, Eileen Titus, brings her 10+ years of wellness-teaching experience to the Program by curating it so that meditation, yoga, and journaling are included, with a Veteran’s mental health and wellbeing in mind.
Eileen Titus, Executive Director of Michael’s Foundation, shared her thoughts on the program’s impact: “Our Equine Program is more than just horseback riding, even though riding is certainly a highlight; it’s about building relationships, finding peace, and belonging to a community– and its all for our Veterans. We are grateful to Keeley Clark Lizano for providing a home, for this program at the Farm. The positive changes we see in our participants speak volumes about the power of these connections.”
Keeley Clark-Lizano, Owner of Keeley Clark’s Al-Marah Arabian Sport Horses, expressed her enthusiasm for the program: “It is a privilege to host Michael’s Foundation’s Equine Program here at the farm. The relationship between horses and Veterans is truly special, and we are committed to supporting this community in every way we can.”
The Equine Program at Michael’s Foundation offers Veterans a chance to engage with horses, providing stress management practices and enhancing overall well-being. By combining equine-assisted learning with supportive community resources, the program aims to create a nurturing environment for Veterans and their families.
For more information about the Equine Program and other initiatives by Michael’s Foundation, please visit Michael’s Foundation website at www.michaels-foundation.org.
About Michael’s Foundation, Inc.
Michael’s Foundation, Inc. is dedicated to supporting Veterans and their families by providing innovative programs and resources designed to improve mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Through a variety of initiatives, the foundation aims to create a supportive community for those who have served our Country.
