Spotlight on FNV Ranch
Hey Collective Crew, Shaun here. This week on The Gold Mine podcast, we had the distinct pleasure of spotlighting a truly special initiative: FNV Ranch. Chance and I were joined by Dallas Prince, an 18-year military veteran (1 CER & CANSOFCOM) and now professional saddle maker, who, along with his significant other (a psychologist specializing in equine therapy), co-founded this incredible program.
FNV Ranch offers no-cost pack trips into the Alberta wilderness for veterans and first responders, leveraging the profound therapeutic connection between humans, horses, and the raw beauty of nature. Our conversation explored the origins of FNV, the unique healing power of this approach, and how we can all support their vital mission.
This Week’s Gold Mine Guest:
Dallas Prince: Co-founder of FNV Ranch, former CANSOFCOM operator, professional saddle maker.
Key Insights from Our Conversation:
1. The Genesis – Therapeutic Power in the Mountains
Dallas shared how a horse packing course during his CANSOFCOM days ignited the idea. He realized the immense therapeutic value of being with horses in the mountains – a sentiment Chance has often echoed on our shows. This personal experience, combined with his partner’s expertise, led to the creation of FNV Ranch, aiming to provide that same healing opportunity to others who have served.
2. Why Horses?
What makes the equine connection so powerful? Dallas explained it’s not just about having something else to care for (though that’s vital for getting out of one’s own head). Horses are incredibly intuitive; as Dallas noted, they can feel your heartbeat from four feet away. They act as mirrors, reflecting your internal state. If you’re agitated or not present, a horse will know and react. This forces a level of mindfulness, calm, and purposeful movement. For individuals dealing with trust issues, building a partnership with a 1200lb animal requires and fosters a unique kind of reciprocal trust.
3. Nature’s Rhythm – Ditching the Clock, Finding the Flow
A key aspect of FNV Ranch trips is stepping away from rigid timings. Dallas emphasized taking off the watch, leaving the phone behind, and syncing with nature’s rhythm. This is liberating, especially for those accustomed to institutionalized schedules. The hard work of a pack trip – early mornings, late nights, caring for animals, navigating unpredictable terrain – is exhausting, but as I recalled from my own horse packing experiences, it forces you to find a sustainable rhythm. This “natural rhythm” fosters a different kind of presence and connection to the environment and the team.
4. Rights of Passage & Unplanned Lessons
The wilderness is unpredictable. Dallas spoke about “rights of passage” – those unplanned moments, like a grizzly walking through camp, or the “chewing tobacco moment” I experienced as a kid – that become indelible memories and profound learning experiences. These moments, often born from facing unexpected challenges, are what truly stick and shape individuals. FNV Ranch aims to provide the environment where these organic, transformative moments can occur.
5. The “No Cell Service” Liberation (and Responsibility)
Dallas highlighted the unique feeling of being outside cell service – a liberating disconnection from the constant digital tether, but also a stark reminder of self-reliance. In the backcountry, you and your team are responsible for each other and for navigating whatever challenges arise. This fosters problem-solving, teamwork, and a renewed sense of capability.
6. The Mission of Veteran Wellness & Saving Lives
FNV Ranch is a non-profit, offering these transformative experiences at no cost to participants. Dallas passionately spoke about the need for such initiatives, filling a vital niche for veterans and first responders. The goal is clear: to provide tools for wellness, to foster connection, and ultimately, to save lives by offering a path to healing and renewed purpose.
7. How to Support FNV Ranch:
– Awareness: Share their story. Follow FNV Ranch on Facebook and Instagram.
– Fundraising: Their upcoming fundraiser on July 1st at the Edson Legion featuring Dallas Alexander is a key event. Tickets are available via their website (fnvranch.com).
– Donations: Pack trips are costly (around $25,000 each). Direct donations are crucial for their continued operation. Dallas acknowledged the generosity of current donors like CannaConnect, The Legion, Blackstone Association, Tourmaline Oil, and V-42 Foundation.
– Volunteer: Ranch work and pack trip support often require volunteers.
– Visit the Fire Pit: Even if not selected for a pack trip, veterans and first responders are welcome at their fire pit for connection and community.
Final Thought – The Healing Power of Shared Hardship and Natural Connection
The work Dallas and his team are doing at FNV Ranch is a powerful example of leveraging lived experience and a deep understanding of both the challenges faced by service members and the profound healing potential of nature and equine connection. Creating an environment where individuals can shed the artificial constructs of daily life, confront themselves in a raw and honest way, build trust, find a natural rhythm, and rediscover their own strength and resilience alongside others who understand their journey.
It’s initiatives like FNV Ranch that truly embody “Deeds Not Words”
Watch the full “FNV Ranch: conversation here: FNV Ranch
Support FNV Ranch and Learn More:
- Website: fnvranch.com
- Instagram: @fnv_ranch
