Now, every time I witness a strong person, I want to know: What darkness did you conquer in your story?
~Katherine Mackenett
360 Approach |
Current Projects AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT VALHALLA
OR6 is seeking $5 million in initial investment capital to cover the cost of acquiring and building Valhalla Ranch. Valhalla Ranch is a 20-30 acre assisted living facility for adults struggling with Panic Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and/or Social Anxiety Disorder. In addition to 360° Student housing, the property design includes housing for staff, a stable, barn, indoor activity arena, dog kennels/off-leash runs, pastures, gardens, a greenhouse, a fitness center and more. Sustainability is a critical focus of the development plans for Valhalla. Utilizing environmentally conscious materials, such as HempWood, and promoting self-sufficiency through greywater recycling systems and gardening beds reduces our carbon footprint and stimulates growth of businesses in the sustainability sector. THE 360° APPROACH PROGRAM:
OR6’s 360° Approach Program aims to help students achieve mental, physical, and spiritual goals over the course of a 6 month rotation. Service Dog and K9 Training- Upon admission, students receive a Valhalla Canine to train as their personal service dog. Training covers skills such as service tasks, protection work, conservation detection, human scent tracking, and odor detection. Funding through the PAWS Act of 2021 covers up to $25,000 of the associated costs for qualified veterans. OR6 aims to achieve Postsecondary Proprietary School classification to allow Students to use GI Bill or other relevant government grants to cover tuition costs. Students will have the opportunity to work with dog rescues, local law enforcement K-9 units, Conservation Detection teams, and Search and Rescue. Every program graduate will leave the program with the knowledge and skill set to run their own dog training business or join a dog handler occupation. |
Equine Therapy- Just like dogs, horses and humans coevolved with one another, causing horses to be exceptionally intuitive. Feelings of anger, frustration, and fear hinder effective communication. With the guidance of a specialized equine therapist, Students will gain a wild horse’s trust and learn how to shape behaviors while managing negative emotions. The wild horses will be trained in accordance with the Mustang Heritage Foundation’s “TIP” methods before being offered for adoption to the public.
Nutrition Counseling- A balanced diet generates changes in body chemistry, improving overall health, energy levels, and mental wellbeing. Students in the 360 Approach program will receive a customized meal plan developed by our in-house nutritionist. The nutritionist will have access to produce grown in the greenhouse and garden beds located on the ranch. Students will participate in the cooking process and will have the opportunity to raise a protein source. By eliminating the stress associated with meal planning and the cooking process, students are able to devote more energy into healing mentally and spiritually. Pain Management- Improperly or unmanaged pain fuels the fire of PTSD and Anxiety. Managing chronic pain can be difficult, confusing, and frustrating. With the help of contracted professionals, Students will develop and implement a treatment plan that focuses on maximizing function, reducing pain, and improving overall quality of life. Students will have access to an on-site fitness center to carry out their treatment plan and maintain their levels of mobility and function. Psychology Research- There has been little quantifiable data collected on the benefits of service dogs and multi-dimensional treatment plans for those struggling with anxiety and PTSD. Observed, generalized effects have been positive, but it’s time to fill in the scientific gaps. OR6 will put out a national call for mental health scholars and professionals interested in contributing to the data collection and analysis efforts. Students will participate in a research study that charts their progression over the course of the program using brain scans, weekly self-administered questionnaires, and psychiatric analysis of disturbance level as a trauma response. Not only will the results benefit the broader medical science community, but it allows the professionals at Valhalla Ranch to cater each aspect of the 360 Approach to the individual and improve the program as needed over time |
How You Can Help |
The foundation is built upon years of proven experience helping those with trauma/PTSD through the companion K9 program, combined with new research data, the science we use is more precise for identifying and solving problems. Your support can help expand our reach with a program that truly helps individuals. Also note your contribution can multiply our efforts by sending healthier minded people back into the world.
OR6 is constantly applying for grants, building new collaborations, and raising funding for the program. Your involvement makes a difference, just an introduction with the right people can be the tipping point for real change. This is where you can help make a difference. |