At R&R Ranch AZ, we believe horses have a special way of healing hearts and bringing people together. That’s why we are so thankful for our partnership with the Phoenix VA. This collaboration has been such a beautiful way to serve our veterans, right here at our horse ranch in Scottsdale.

R&R Ranch AZ is a nonprofit, and our heart is to serve those who have given so much for us—our American veterans. Partnering with the Phoenix VA made sense because they are the main group meant to support veterans. We wanted to be part of that support.

As Samantha Walker, the owner of R&R Ranch AZ, shared:
“My hope for the veterans before working with them was to help them find some peace and quiet in their thoughts and struggles as they tried to fit back into daily life. After working with them, my biggest hope is that they keep coming out to find their community. I didn’t realize how isolated they can feel. That’s what we’re trying to overcome—getting them out of the house, finding their people, and knowing there’s a big, loving space for them.”

What the Program Looks Like
Each week, veterans spend two hours at the ranch. The first hour is in the garden—harvesting fruits and vegetables, gathering eggs, feeding the chickens, planting, and caring for the land. Many veterans said they especially loved gardening, and some were inspired by Michael’s passion for growing food.

The second hour is with the horses. Sometimes it’s grooming, sometimes walking or bathing them, and sometimes riding. But most veterans shared that their favorite part was simply standing with the horses—grooming, braiding their hair, or even learning how to massage them. The bond they built with the horses was powerful. As Samantha said, “The horses felt the most important with this group, and they loved that time together.”

What Veterans Shared
We asked veterans what they enjoyed most, and here’s what they said:

  • “Massage therapy and meditation day.”

  • “Grooming and braiding the hair.”

  • “Walking with the horse.”

  • “The variety of experiences—gardening, tractor, horses.”

  • “Learning about farm life away from the city—we loved learning!”

  • “Having 1-on-1 help.”

Of course, there were challenges too. Some felt anxious making decisions. Others found it hard to build a mental connection with the horse or were nervous at first. But those challenges turned into growth.

When asked what they felt more confident in compared to their first day, veterans said:

  • Trust

  • Self-esteem

  • Connection with the horse

Why This Matters
At R&R Ranch AZ, we love that we can give veterans a place to find what they need—community, peace, quiet, or new skills. This program is not just about horses or gardening. It’s about helping veterans feel less alone, more connected, and more confident in themselves.

We are beyond grateful for this collaboration with the Phoenix VA and for every veteran who has walked through our barn doors. Our ranch family has grown because of them, and we can’t wait to keep building this community together.

Because here at R&R Ranch AZ, serving veterans isn’t just something we do—it’s who we are. Want to support what we do?