Healing in Action: Your Quarterly Update from Common Ground
- commongroundps
- Aug 5
- 3 min read
A Season of Connection and Growth
This spring, Common Ground welcomed new groups, strengthened partnerships, and deepened our commitment to healing through the powerful connection between humans and horses.
From veterans and first responders to caregivers and community leaders, we were honored to create space for each story, each step forward, and each quiet moment of reflection.
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Program Highlights
Our Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) programs focus on authentic connection between you and the horse; there's no need for the “right” words - just honest, moment-to-moment experience. Check out a few of the programs we hosted in the last few months, featured below!
Grief Support with Frederick Health Hospice
Recently, we welcomed the members of Frederick Health Hospice’s grief support group, led by therapist Patricia Bowers, LCPC. These individuals are walking through the loss of a long-time spouse or parent, and time with the horses offered a powerful and supportive addition to their healing journey.
Mount Airy Rotary Club Members
From thoughtful conversations about our mission to meaningful interactions with the horses, the visit with the Rotary Club was a beautiful example of community connection. A special thank-you to William C. Hillmuth III, President of the Mount Airy Rotary, for his leadership and support.
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS)
This year’s multi-session program included a special all-day experience for military family members, centered on healing through horses and meaningful connection. Thank you to the Maryland Horse Industry Board for making it possible through their 2025 grant support!
Featured on Good Morning Frederick!
Elizabeth Tate, Founder & Director of Common Ground, joined Dani Gurrie, founder of Promo Circus, on Good Morning Frederick @goodmorningfrederick (Episode 251) for an inspiring conversation about Common Ground’s mission, her personal story, and the powerful impact of our equine-assisted programs.
Screening of PTSD 911
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the screening of PTSD911. It was a powerful evening, and we’re grateful to all who showed up, sat with the hard truths, and supported Common Ground’s mission to bring healing through Post-Traumatic Growth. A special thank-you to our volunteers, panelists, and to Conrad Weaver, Producer and Director of PTSD911, for your partnership.
A huge thank you to Patrick Hand and FirstHand Productions for providing professional audio and visual support and a seamless setup for our panel discussion during the PTSD911 screening event. We truly couldn’t have pulled it off without them! Patrick and his team generously donated 100% of their services, including three dedicated professionals who ran the entire show from start to finish. We’re so grateful for their time, talent, and heart.
Upcoming Events
Answering the Call: Dispatchers & Officers
Common Ground recently welcomed 911 dispatchers and police officers from the Maryland Natural Resources Police for a unique Equine Assisted Learning session focused on rest, reflection, and resilience. This session created space for all participants, on the front lines or behind the headset.
We are especially proud to include and continue to seek out 911 dispatchers to participate in Post Traumatic Growth Healing with the horses. These professionals are the first, First Responders to answer the call and are too often overlooked when it comes to access to wellness and support.
Thank you to our
2025 Common Ground Insiders!
Your dedication to our mission makes it possible to provide free programs for our military members and veterans. We’re grateful for your support and belief in the healing power of connection.
Canter Champion
Helen J. Tate Memorial Trust
Galloping Guardians
Keller Brothers
Pony Partners
Maryland Horse Industry Board
David Shamberger
Carolyn Bonifant
Marjorie Smithhisler
Rick Meckel, In loving memory of Vickie Meckel
News & Updates
Ready to Explore More?
We couldn't do this work without your belief in our mission. Whether you’ve volunteered, donated, or simply shared our story, thank you for helping us create a world where healing is possible for all.
If you're not yet involved, there's still time to make a difference this year! Explore the options below to support.
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