Program Outcomes & Evidence
Mountains Move runs Journey (one-on-one mentored weeks) and Warrior Summit (small-group retreats) in Colorado’s Arkansas River Valley. We use backcountry time and rescued mustangs to strengthen faith, restore purpose, and build belonging.
We also measure our programs carefully - so we can learn, improve, and share citeable results with churches, partners, and foundations. That is program evaluation, not clinical care.
WHY WE MEASURE
We ask voluntary, short questionnaires before and after Journey and Summit. Guests may skip items or opt out. The goal is to see where our ministry is supporting or improving the wellness of our guests, as we strive to build program capacity.
These tools are not used to diagnose PTSD, treat mental illness, or file a VA claim.
PRIVACY & CARE
- We do not put guest names or individual scores on this website.
- Score sheets are stored by a private guest code, not by name.
- Names are kept only in a locked staff file, separate from scores.
- Only de-identified totals (and averages when enough guests have completed) are shared publicly or with partners.
- If you are a guest and feel unsafe or in crisis at any time: call or text 988, then press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line, or go to the nearest emergency room. Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
RESEARCH WE STAND NEXT TO
Please see the published findings below, related to outdoor, equine, and faith-based approaches that help frame and communicate the importance of our work.
1. Wheeler et al. (2020). Outdoor peer recreation RCT - PLOS ONE. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0241763
2. Fisher et al. (2021). Equine-assisted open trial - J Clin Psychiatry. https://doi.org/10.4088/JCP.21m14005
3. Provan et al. (2024). Equine interventions meta-analysis - BMC Psychiatry. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-024-05984-w
4. Gelkopf et al. (2013). Nature adventure therapy RCT - Psychiatry Research. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2013.01.026
HOW TO SUPPORT
New monthly partners: Donate here
Churches and businesses: info@mountainsmove.org
Questions about our evaluation approach: info@mountainsmove.org