The Foundation funds programs that take place at Miles Ranch in
North Fort Myers, which focus on treating post- traumatic stress and
other mental disabilities/disorders using equestrian therapy.
Equestrian-assisted therapy is the use of horses in the evaluation and
treatment of patients.
“Events like Tomstock X really make a difference in how we can
assist local veterans who want help in improving their quality of
life,” said Keith Doxie, President and Veterans Services
Representative for the Foundation.
Tomstock founder and coordinator Matt Stachler is happy to
help.
“It’s a lot of work to coordinate every year, but for the
right reasons such as the Miles of Smiles Foundation, it is definitely
worth the effort, especially when you see how many people’s lives are
touched by their assistance,” he said.
To learn more about the event, how to donate or sponsor, visit
tomstockfestival.com or www.facebook.coTomstock.
About Tomstock
Tomstock started when two local firefighters decided to stage a
one-day food and music festival to give back to the community. With
the help of local support, it has become a great success and is now
located on a generous landowner’s property in North Fort Myers.
Miles Ranch
The Miles of Smiles Foundation operates Miles Ranch, a
not-for-profit 20-acre horse ranch in North Fort Myers, dedicated to
equine-assisted psychotherapy for military veterans. Founded in 2007,
Miles of Smiles Foundation is named in honor of Miles Doxie, son of
Gail and Keith Doxie, who passed away May 25, 2006, at the age of 17 —
two weeks before he was to leave for a career in the U. S. Air Force.
They have since dedicated a good portion of their lives assisting
veterans who suffer with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) via
equine assisted psychotherapy and equine assisted learning programs.
In addition to working with veterans, the foundation works
with children with mental health, behavioral & physical disabilities.
More info at milesranch.org
