Mission Statement
Providing Purpose.
Transforming Lives.
Restoring Hope.
We recognize the profound significance of our work in fostering a deeper appreciation for the human-animal bond.
Mission Statement
Providing Purpose. Transforming Lives. Restoring Hope.
Our Misson
Our mission is to improve the quality of life for veterans and individuals impacted by trauma, disability and behavioral or mental health challenges through evidence-informed, animal-assisted and nature based therapeutic programs.
Our Vision
Our vision is to create a place where no person or animal feels limited by their disability or current condition.
A community focused on inspiring hope and empowering individuals by utilizing the healing power of rescued animals to achieve balance and a life full of purpose.
Who We Are
We are a 501(c)(3) tax exempt non-profit organization formed to help both people and animals, creating meaningful connections that support emotional healing, trust-building, and personal growth through the powerful bond between humans and animals.
We help transform lives by providing non-traditional, animal-assisted therapeutic experiences that harness the healing power of highly trained rescue animals, fostering connection, growth, and resilience for veterans and individuals impacted by trauma, disability and behavioral or mental health challenges.
Who We Transform
Have you ever heard the phrase, who rescued who? These animals impact our lives as much as we impact theirs. Our hope is to inspire positive change and show an ongoing commitment to making a difference within our community through educating individuals on the unique behaviors and needs of each animal while providing an awareness to the many life-long benefits they provide through human/animal interactions.
We help transform lives by providing non-traditional, animal-assisted therapeutic experiences that harness the healing power of highly trained rescue animals, fostering connection, growth, and resilience for veterans and individuals impacted by trauma, disability and behavioral or mental health challenges.
Who We Serve
Buckeye Ridge Rescue and Retreat serves veterans and individuals impacted by trauma, disability, or behavioral and mental health challenges. Particularly those underserved by traditional therapeutic models.
Our programs are designed for those who may not thrive in traditional therapy settings and who benefit from meaningful connection with animals and nature. Through guided interactions with rescued animals, we help individuals build trust, confidence, emotional regulation, and a renewed sense of purpose. We create second chances for animals and humans in need.
Populations Served
• Rescued Animals
• Veterans and Active Military
• Individuals Impacted by Trauma, Disability, or Behavioral & Mental Health Challenges
• High-Risk or Vulnerable Children & Youth
• First Responders
• Caregivers, Families, and Support Systems
• Community Members and Partners
1. Rescued Animals
Animals needing:
Rehabilitation
Purposeful engagement
Meaningful human connection
Animals trained as:
Therapeutic partners
Emotional regulation supports
Trust-building facilitators
2. Veterans
Individuals impacted by:
PTSD and trauma
Physical disabilities
Behavioral and mental health challenges
Veterans who may be:
Disconnected from traditional clinical settings
Seeking non-traditional, nature-based healing
Experiencing isolation, transition stress, or loss of purpose
3. Individuals Impacted by Trauma, Disability, or Behavioral/Mental Health Challenges
Adults and youth affected by:
Trauma, including adverse life experiences
Physical, cognitive, or developmental disabilities
Anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, or emotional regulation difficulties
Individuals who:
Do not thrive in traditional therapy environments
Benefit from experiential, relationship-based interventions
4. High-Risk or Vulnerable Children & Youth
Children impacted by:
Trauma, neglect, or instability
Disabilities or behavioral challenges
Foster care or disrupted family systems
Youth who benefit from:
Trust-building experiences
Emotional regulation development
Confidence and purpose through animal and nature connection
5. First Responders
Firefighters
Law enforcement
Emergency medical services (EMS)
Common challenges include:
High exposure to trauma and burnout
Limited access to effective, non-clinical mental health support
6. Caregivers, Families, and Support Systems
Families of veterans
Caregivers of individuals with disabilities
Parents and guardians of children receiving services
7. Community Members and Partners
Donors and grantmakers
Healthcare, education, and social service partners
Volunteers
Schools, VA programs, and therapeutic referral networks
Office Hours
Monday to Friday9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Saturday9:00 am to 12:00 noon
Reservations Office
3550 Millersport Dr
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