About Spirit of Service
Animals improve lives every day — through companionship, service and support. Nonprofits in Kansas City and around the world work tirelessly to protect animal health and welfare, often with limited resources.
Since 2016, the Kansas City Animal Health Corridor has recognized outstanding organizations and helped raise nearly $250,000 to support their missions.
Honorees are recognized at the annual Animal Health Summit in Kansas City.
Sponsored by
2026 Spirit of Service Honoree
War Horses for Veterans
Founded in 2014, War Horses for Veterans was built on a powerful idea: that healing can happen in unexpected places. Through the connection between horses and humans, the program is redefining how we support the mental wellness of those who have served, whether in the armed forces or as first responders.
War Horses offers one- and five-day immersive experiences designed to reconnect participants from across the country with a sense of purpose. For those who have given so much of themselves in service, this is a chance to rediscover strength, identity and direction beyond the uniform.
At the core of the program is western performance horsemanship. Participants work alongside elite trainers and highly skilled horses in disciplines like reined cow horses and team roping. These demanding environments require focus, trust and calm under pressure. Skills that are deeply familiar to those who have faced high-stakes situations in service.
But the transformation doesn’t end in the arena. What begins as a personal journey extends into every part of life. Participants leave with renewed clarity, emotional resilience and the tools to rebuild what matters most — their relationships.
When one person heals, families grow stronger, connections deepen and entire communities are impacted.
War Horses for Veterans is a place where purpose is rediscovered and strength is reclaimed.
Honoring Past Recipients
We proudly recognize previous Spirit of Service honorees whose tireless work have made a lasting impact.
Past Recipients
2025 | On a Mission KC
2024 | Inclusion Connections / PawsAbilities
2023 | The Pet Assistance Network of Topeka (PANT)
2022 | Pawsperity
2021 | Going to the Dogs and Warriors’ Best Friend
2020 | Retrieving Freedom & Symbiotic Behavioral Treatment Center
2019 | New Horizon Ranch & Rose Brooks Center
2018 | Kansas State Animal Response Team (KS SART) & KSDS Assistance Dogs, Inc.
2017 | Heartland Therapeutic Riding & Lakemary Ranch
2016 | Community Veterinary Outreach / Dr. Michelle Lem
Let’s Build the Future of Animal Health — Together
If your company is innovating in animal health, diagnostics or pet food, the KC Animal Health Corridor offers unmatched opportunity and support. Get in touch to see how we can help your business grow.