First Responders Program

Our First Responder Program is designed to support the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of those who dedicate their lives to serving others. Through equine-assisted activities and meaningful interactions with horses, first responders are given a unique opportunity to decompress, reconnect, and build resilience in a peaceful, supportive environment. 

The program focuses on stress reduction, confidence building, emotional wellness, and teamwork while fostering connection and community among participants. First Responders are welcomed into a space where they can step away from the demands of their work and focus on their own well-being. Activities may include groundwork with horses, grooming, team building exercises, and guided equine-assisted experiences tailored to the needs of the group. 

No horse experience is necessary. 

Become a Participant

To learn more or apply to become a participant in our First Responders program through New Heights, fill out the form below.

First Responder Visit - March 2026

658136029_1394896969342934_1807617267656732254_n.jpg
658337567_1394896996009598_6071165032589468851_n.jpg
658340557_1394896979342933_8194593874364743081_n.jpg
658798665_1393094772856487_2370562526758862644_n.jpg
658964171_1394896959342935_6772445501698427616_n.jpg
659168595_1394896952676269_4058240240880549154_n.jpg
659209271_1394896922676272_2171766312198448776_n.jpg
660444431_1394896929342938_3885974914478312053_n.jpg

First Responder Program Launch - March 2026

Thanks to St. Tammany Fire Protection District No. 5 for visiting our facility to help launch our NEW First Responder Program!!

The First Responder Program joins our Veterans Program to expand our Equine-Assisted Services to more individuals who need!

Special thanks to the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust for their endless support in our adaptive therapy programs. With their support we are able to provide these programs FREE of charge!

DSC01315.JPG
DSC01267.JPG
DSC01279.JPG
DSC01299.JPG
DSC01326.JPG
DSC01330.JPG
DSC01338.JPG
DSC01341.JPG
DSC01331.JPG
DSC01349.JPG
DSC01360.JPG
DSC01292-2.jpg

Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust

Oscar J. Tolmas was a lifelong resident of New Orleans, a Veteran of WWII, and an attorney and real estate developer. Horse racing was a passion of Tolmas. In his last will and testament, he formed the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust to help charitable organizations fulfill their missions. His legacy and generosity will live on in the hearts of many.

New Heights gratefully acknowledges the enormous support of the Oscar J. Tolmas Foundation whose continued support has propelled our mission and enabled so many Veterans, adults, and children with cognitive, physical, and emotional challenges to experience the healing power of the horse.

Oscar’s Legacy

Mr. Tolmas was dedicated to giving back to his community. In his last will and testament he formed the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust to help other charitable organizations with their missions. He left all of his estate to the trust.

About the Trustees

Mr. Tolmas selected Vincent J. Giardina, CPA and Lisa N. Romano, CPA for the Trustee positions. Mr. Giardina was Mr. Tolmas’ CPA for approximately 20 years. Mrs. Romano worked directly for Mr. Tolmas for 15 years.