JIM SMITH “THE BEACON”: Using What You’ve Got

A message from E.E.T. founder, Mike Dunne:

I was honored and thrilled when Leslie Smith called to ask if Jim’s Family could suggest Equine Empowered Therapy, 501 C3 donations as a remembrance to the life that Forehead Smith (of course) nee Jim Smith had lived. Leslie asked me to provide a few words that they could include as part of his obituary.

From inception of the charity in 2017; and, on every occasion since, Jim’s Beacon has pointed the way through my doubts, mistakes, and frustrations. He always saw beyond my limitations and focused on the marvelous, life-saving, life-changing results being experienced by our traumatized veterans.

Jim was particularly enthralled by the individuals that had lost the most – who never the less embraced what they had, accepted what they no longer had, and found productive and powerful energy for their lives ahead.

We’ve established this space for people to donate in Jim’s honor, and those donations will be used exclusively for those veterans who have lost the most. Videos and other information about the horses and people who have been transformed will be regularly posted here.

Here is the latest program for blind and disabled veterans from January 22, 2023. This program is done in conjunction with the VA Blind Rehabilitation Center (BRC), Long Beach, CA. There is no cost to veterans for any of the EET programs.

August, 2023 Update

As a fellow friend and admirer of Jim Smith for over 60 years, I would have loved nothing more than to have his dearest friends with me in a recent program for blind and disabled veterans.

Juan’s life was profoundly changed by his equine experience. Encouraged by the nature of the horse, Juan overcame his blindness and painted this beautiful picture to memorialize his experience.

For me, it is not a coincidence that funds from Jim’s supporters were used to pay for this program. He epitomized “using the tools and resources you have” which is central to EET equine therapies for those who are in the throes of trauma and loss. I am the lucky one that got to be there for this transformation. Juan asked that we express his gratitude to all who helped to make this happen. Words fail me.

I am very grateful for your donations; and, I assure you that every penny will be invested in renewed vigor for life and the tools that we have.

Thank you,
Mike (RU) Dunne