Common Ground

🐴 New Equine Therapist Spotlight: Moose 🐴

Moose is a Brabant Draft Horse, one of the oldest known horse breeds in the world. She came to us from Utah, and her life now is one of quiet simplicity — doing a whole lot of nothing. And honestly… she prefers it that way.
Moose does not like being alone and loves her herd deeply. A sensitive soul, she finds comfort in routine, where familiarity brings her peace, grounding, and safety.
Moose is a teacher of patience and presence. She asks for your full attention and will gently remind you to let go of the outside world with a soft nudge, guiding you back to the moment… and back to her.
If you have the chance to work with Moose, she will help you let it all go.
Moose is graciously allowed to participate in our Common Ground program by her owner, Torrey Silliman, and we are incredibly grateful for the calm, healing presence she brings to those we serve. ✨

🌟 Volunteer Spotlight: Kelley Flanders 🌟
Today we are shining a light on Kelley Flanders for the compassion, dedication, and heart she brings to our mission. Volunteers brought her grandkids to visit the horses and just like Kelley they were able to create meaningful moments of healing, connection, and hope as a family.
Kelley has been with Common Ground since the very beginning in 2017! Her dedication to equine-assisted learning and helping others is truly unmatched. 💙
“I love being in this space because I learn a lot. On the periphery I also get to experience the therapy and absorb what the horses have to offer. Helping people with mental health wellness is my passion. We make THE BEST DAMN TEAM EVER!!!”
She also shared:
“I love horses so I get to combine my passions to add tools to my toolbox, help others, and spend time with horses.”
Her willingness to show up, support others, and share kindness reminds us that even the smallest acts can leave a lasting impact. We are beyond grateful to have Kelley as part of our community.
Thank you, Kelley, for helping us change lives — one smile, one moment, and one connection at a time. 🐴✨

Imagine waking up every day knowing you’re not just living your life, but you have the opportunity to help change someone else’s.
It’s all about perspective at Common Ground. ✨
We recently had the incredible opportunity to work with the Maryland Crime Victims' Resource Center (MCVRC), creating space for hope, healing, smiling, and a moment to simply pause… breathe… and step out of the constant cycle of an upregulated nervous system.
One participant shared, “I have not laughed in years.”
Another said, “I actually got a break from feeling the constant sadness of loss.”
Sometimes healing begins with one quiet moment of connection, a smile, or the freedom to feel something different — even if only for a little while. 💙