Group HERD Program

When communication breaks down and collaboration stalls, HERD offers a hands-on way to restore connection, develop respect and improve group dynamics.

Featured above is a group HERD session.

Are you seeking more unity, open communication, respect, and collaboration in any of the groups you belong to—such as your family, co-workers, friend group, or board? Does it feel like there is no middle ground to stand on, with individuals firmly upholding their own way instead of collaborating and compromising? Do you dread interactions and time spent with this group? If you resonate with any of these statements, or are simply looking for a positive, device-free bonding activity for your group, Horses Help’s HERD program is here to support and assist you!

The HERD acronym stands for Honor, Emotion, Respect, and Devotion—all key values to any group. The program’s curriculum includes activities that help individuals open their perspectives, improve communication, recognize each other’s strengths, and enhance overall group dynamics, among other lessons and values. Each lesson varies from 1½ to 2 hours. Learning herd dynamics from our horses helps groups recognize what can be improved in their group interactions and how those improvements can be applied.

This program has been applied to families, corporate teams, and behavioral health groups that live together to name a few. Here’s what our participants have to say about their experience with the HERD program:

“It was such a beautiful moment. It was humbling, to say the least, that he (the horse, Durango) broke down every wall that I had intentionally built to hate everything. And in one second it changed my life. Now before I go any further, I want to thank the ladies that were part of my team. The kindness and the patience they gave this old girl was amazing. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I will be back again.”

One of the mothers said to her horse, Shadow, “Shadow, that’s MY baby” and gestured to her son. Shadow replied by touching his nose to her heart. That participant shared: “Thank you so much. Me and my son really enjoyed our time.”

Groups are recommended to take part in at least 2–3 lessons together to build upon the values learned. From that point, groups are welcome to continue with up to 6 lessons, one lesson per week during a program session. That cycle can be repeated in the following 6-week program session. The maximum number of individuals per group per lesson is 8.

To get more details and to save a spot for you and your group starting in mid-September, please reach out to Lauren at lauren@horseshelp.org.

We are excited to welcome you and your group to our facility!