Women Military Veterans Gathered for The Highground Veterans Memorial's Healing Event

Tuesday, September 22nd, 2026 -- 12:01 PM

Women military veterans from across the state gathered at The Highground for an impact-driven healing event on Saturday, September 12.

Attendees gathered early in the morning for the Warrior Sisters Gathering, kicking off a dynamic day dedicated to camaraderie, shared experiences, and mutual support among female veterans.

The event offered participants a powerful environment to connect with fellow sisters in arms while engaging in empowering new activities. The day began as the group of 21 veterans boarded a minibus provided by Xtreme Party Bus service and traveled north from The Highground to Strides Equestrian.

The veterans used this travel time to do a round of introductions and form a bond of common experiences and support that grew throughout the day. Heidi and Jason Lenz, owners of Strides Equestrian, gave a warm welcome to the veterans before they began the first workshops of the day.

Under the guidance of Heidi and Jason, veterans experienced the healing power of equine therapy. This proven, horse-assisted healing modality actively helps veterans navigate trauma responses, while simultaneously supporting first responders, civilians, and children in overcoming diverse mental and physical challenges.

A painting workshop was led by art wellness facilitator Jamie. Utilizing one of the ranch’s dedicated creative spaces, participants crafted patriotic-themed floral paintings to take home.

While the group painted, the conversations flowed to the many unique aspects and challenges experienced by women serving in the military. The Freedom Ranch Foundation made this incredibly special equine therapy program, art workshop and lunch at Strides possible for the veterans.

The group returned to The Highground in the afternoon to participate in additional presentations and workshops designed to alleviate daily stress, restore focus and bring joy to individuals healing from trauma.

Forward Bank representatives Marisa Steinbach and Rochley Gross delivered an engaging presentation on financial investing and fraud prevention. The session, which focused on actionable strategies to avoid scams, identity theft, and account hacking, drew high engagement and extended into an active Q&A session driven by strong audience interest.

The afternoon concluded with veterans enjoying workshops focused on inner peace, relaxation and mindfulness. Jackie Halverson, a veteran and yoga instructor with Peaceful Warrior, helped guide participants through a calming, introspective introduction to yoga.

Tina Wagner of Healing Oaks Nature Therapy, LLC led a forest therapy walk, inviting veterans to ground themselves in the moment and connect with natural elements often overlooked in daily life.

Once dismissed as “alternative,” evidence-based practices like yoga and forest therapy are increasingly recognized as accessible, powerful tools for combatting stress, sharpening focus, and improving overall mental and physical health.

The Warrior Sisters Gathering concluded at The Highground with a homemade supper and a talking circle. Longtime volunteer Bonnie Henchen prepared the meal for the participants, while Jackie Halverson led the talking circle to close the retreat.

Veterans who stayed overnight locally were treated to breakfast the next morning at The Highground. As with all retreats coordinated by The Highground, the veterans were given several items to help them continue at home with the activities they were introduced to during the retreat.

The participants took home painting kits and supplies, books on post-traumatic stress and military sexual trauma recognition and management, budget and financial planners, yoga mats, books on forest therapy, and information from the Vet Center.

They also got a Freedom Ranch t-shirt to remember their visit to the Strides Equestrian facility. The Warrior Sisters Gathering was made possible a through grant from the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) and the following donors:

• Global Finishing Solutions,
• Pamela Graham,
• American Legion Aux 291,
• Harold Schmitt,
• Melanie Wrensch,
• The Vets Run,
• Mark & Beth Rodwell,
• The Rusty Nail,
• Kerry McAllen,
• Hansen’s IGA,
• And William Bishop.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.