Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Baker.
Hi Julie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Julie Baker, the compassionate founder of Horses & Heroes (H&H), had a profoundly transformative experience when she rescued her first traumatized horse at just twelve years old. Jehdan, a magnificent thoroughbred, was found alone in a desolate lot, deprived of food and water. His visible scars and bony frame bore witness to the physical abuse and neglect he had endured, while the invisible emotional wounds left him trembling, unable to trust anyone. During her regular visits, Julie instinctively understood that Jehdan needed the essentials: food, shelter, and above all, a nurturing environment where he could heal at his own pace and rediscover his trust in people.
Years later, and navigating life as a military spouse with three children, Julie looked back on the unique challenges faced by military families. She found solace in the camaraderie and support of others who understood her struggles. But even amidst that supportive community, Julie felt a deep yearning to extend her compassion to those around her who were suffering in silence.
Reflecting on her journey with Jehdan, she envisioned a meaningful partnership between discarded and traumatized horses and the individuals grappling with their own emotional pains. During a coaching session, her business coach posed a thought-provoking question: “What is your why? What drives you to serve others?” At that moment, Julie couldn’t quite pinpoint her “why,” but the coach’s words lingered in her mind—in time, she would discover it, and it would be both overwhelming and enlightening.
Julie sensed that her “why” was intricately tied to Jehdan’s healing journey and her empathy for struggling military families. She felt a stirring in her soul, suggesting that she could bring hope and healing not only to discarded horses but also to humans in need. That flicker of clarity ignited on the morning of October 13, 2014, when a gentle nudge compelled her to search for equine therapy. Within an hour, everything clicked, revealing a new purpose that resonated deeply with her. Coincidentally, this date marked two significant moments in her life—the birth of her first daughter in 1985 and the heartbreaking loss of her stepmother to suicide in 2010.
When individuals uncover their “why,” they tap into a powerful source of motivation and resolve that fuels their passion. The vision of Horses & Heroes becomes a beacon of hope, reaching out to others who may feel adrift in their own lives. This powerful vision attracts like-minded individuals and supporters who recognize the mission’s importance. The overarching goal of Horses & Heroes is to cultivate a haven for healing and restoration, providing an environment where both traumatized humans and horses can forge connections, rebuild trust, and rediscover their purpose.
Now in its eleventh year, Horses & Heroes is celebrating a decade of creating pathways for rescued horses to help heal heroes. The organization thoughtfully covers the costs for every veteran and first responder seeking support through Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. H&H presents an alternative approach to traditional therapy, allowing clients to engage with horses as equals from the ground. This unique experience enables individuals to explore unresolved traumas, relationships, and personal beliefs. Guided by skilled clinicians, the dynamic interaction with horses offers profound emotional insights, renewed hope, and authentic healing.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
As a military spouse and mother, Julie faced a daunting task in founding a veteran service organization (VSO) within a predominantly male industry. This journey began during a time when Equine Therapy was still largely unknown and misunderstood. Despite the challenges, Julie not only bravely traversed this uncharted territory for equine therapy but also provided opportunities for other new therapists to gain invaluable practical experience and go on to create their own programs.
Embarking on not-for-profit work is a significant challenge, often marked by uncertainty and a lack of a clear path to navigate. In the early years after establishing H&H, Julie balanced her full-time job to cover personal expenses and support the fledgling organization. Every decision was carefully considered, from securing a location to rescuing horses at risk of destruction, all while being mindful of the many unknowns that surrounded her. With unwavering faith and tenacity, Julie faced each obstacle head-on, learning invaluable lessons and adjusting her approach as needed.
H&H’s first home was a large boarding facility, where Julie cared for her rescued mare, affectionately known as Mama, and her foal, Baby. It quickly became apparent that conducting private counseling sessions at a bustling, public facility was not ideal. Realizing this, they actively sought a more private setting. Just when they needed it most, a kind gentleman reached out to share that he had a vacant 12-acre horse farm in Shawnee, Kansas. This generous offer enabled them to move H&H into a space where they could grow and thrive. The old facility was charming but lacked essentials, such as indoor plumbing, running hot water, and heated spaces for staff and clients. Despite the extreme conditions, the vision and dedication of H&H’s staff never wavered. The programs flourished, reflecting the resilience of the horses and those involved.
In 2021, when the Shawnee property sold, H&H faced uncertainty again and the challenge of finding a new home. In October 2022, Julie and her husband, Rob, discovered a lovely 10-acre property in Leavenworth County. They made the heartfelt decision to invest in this land to provide stability and security for H&H’s mission of healing. After several years of hard work and construction, H&H now has a space that offers shelter for the horses, warm areas for its people, and, perhaps most importantly, two bathrooms that won’t tip over in a stiff wind.
As the demand for H&H’s services continues to grow, so too do the financial needs. People are coming from across Kansas and Missouri to seek help, and it costs H&H more than $2,000 per person for their sessions. This ever-increasing need for financial support is deeply felt, and H&H humbly seeks small, regular monthly contributions to help cover the costs of the dedicated, licensed professionals and to ensure the well-being of the horses, who are truly the stars of the programs.
The testimonials from those who have benefited from H&H are profoundly uplifting, confirming that the programs not only help individuals feel better but also empower them to become better versions of themselves. Many report a decrease in PTSD symptoms, a reduction in debilitating anxiety and depression, and a significant decline in suicidal thoughts. Although the path ahead is fraught with challenges, Julie and the H&H team remain steadfast in their beliefs that their efforts and dedicated services are creating transformative, life-changing impacts for those they serve.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Julie is the founder and executive director of Horses & Heroes, bringing over 30 years of professional experience to the organization. As an accomplished leader, she expertly directs and manages all facets of the organization’s operations. With a Master’s degree in Neuroscience & Trauma and more than two decades of expertise in exercise and nutrition, Julie possesses a profound understanding of the intricate relationship between brain and body, empowering individuals to achieve emotional and physical wellness.
H&H is dedicated to creating comprehensive programs aimed at educating individuals and communities about trauma recovery and the effects of nervous system injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Our initiatives focus on facilitating a deeper understanding of integrated recovery approaches that address both the psychological and physiological aspects of trauma. By combining therapeutic techniques, support systems, and educational resources, we strive to empower individuals on their healing journeys, equipping them with the tools to navigate the challenges of trauma and promote lasting recovery.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Julie grew up in an active household with her brother, embracing her athletic nature while also nurturing her sensitive side. Her love for horses blossomed at a young age, becoming a source of joy and comfort. School was another passion of hers; she thrived academically and filled her free time with activities she cherished, such as running, drawing horses, and playing the violin.
Raised by a dedicated single mother, Julie and her older brother were encouraged to contribute to the household, which instilled in her a strong work ethic. However, this upbringing also led her to develop a task-oriented mindset later in life. It wasn’t until her relationship with horses deepened that she realized the importance of connection over mere productivity. In the barn, while she tries to tackle chores like picking up manure, one of her horses often stands right in the way, demanding her attention and affection. This gentle reminder from her equine friends possibly resonates with many of us: it’s crucial to prioritize emotional connections with our loved ones. Housework can wait, but the emotional needs of our children and partners are vital for fostering balanced and relational lives. Taking the time to connect with them matters most.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.HorsesandHeroes.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/horsesheroes/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HorsesAndHeroes.kc/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/57441321/admin/dashboard/
- Twitter: https://x.com/HorsesanHeroes
- Youtube: https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCe5CRLulcTtVKwJH_qf5fcg
