Our Horses say "Nay" to drugs!

"Say Nay!" Camp 2006

~ see more photos below ~

The "Say Nay" program was developed years ago, modeled after the nationwide D.A.R.E program, but with an important extra component: the relationship to a horse.  The horse is not judgmental and provides unconditional love and companionship.  Understanding the horse requires responsibility for its care and is rewarded by that unique relationship.  Our troopers rely on military bearing which helps set examples of good behavior and encourages mentoring relationships.

The program brings horses to schools, directly involving the students with the horses.  For many, this is their first exposure to such an animal.  A summer camp is also held, where selected students spend days in a more intense program covering self-esteem, the dangers of any kind of drug use, and different approaches of how to "say nay".  The kids work with the horses each day and the camp ends with graduation ceremonies.  Each student makes a promise to a special horse to stay drug-free.

2006 "Say Nay to Drugs" Camp, 1GHG, Avon, CT

May 28, 2002 Article from New Haven Register, Madison School visit
May 18, 2002 Article from New Britain Herald, New Britain Schools visit

Trooper Mark Bernier and "Colonel"
Spring 2003

=== "Say Nay" Student Art 2004 ===