Deep in the woods in Conestoga lies a 21-acre property populated by lush flora and thoroughbred horses. The Building Bridges Foundation at Anderson Farm, located on Indian Hill Road, was created by Dave Anderson in 2015 for one purpose: to offer veterans a place of peace, recovery and comradery.

Building Bridges began by offering free equine therapy to veterans, using six thoroughbred horses. The number of veterans participating in the program has continued to grow each year, with the foundation now serving twice as many people as it did in 2015.

Building Bridges employs two equine therapists, one of whom is a veteran himself. Equine therapy is used to help veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions from their time in the military. All of the foundation's services remain free due to community fundraising and sponsors.

In 2018, Building Bridges created the Vet's Cafe. Every Thursday from 8 a.m. to noon, veterans are invited to gather at the cafe, which is stationed atop a scenic hill on the property. The private atmosphere, free from the sounds of traffic or commotion, offers veterans an opportunity to connect with those who have had similar experiences. Local grocery stores provide pastries, cookies and coffee for the cafe. "The biggest thing that happens there is the conversation," said Joe Campbell, chief operating officer of Building Bridges. "Sometimes it's riotous laughter; sometimes it's a sedated discussion about things that are near and dear to them."

Building Bridges serves veterans from across Lancaster County and sees participation from many residents of the Southern End. As the foundation has grown over the years, it has made an effort to engage in community events such as the Solanco and West Lampeter fairs and Oregon Dairy's Celebration of America event. The number of veterans participating in the Vet's Cafe has continued to grow each year.

Once a month, the Vet's Cafe hosts a guest speaker to cover any of a wide range of subjects relating to PTSD and life after service in the armed forces. Building Bridges plans to open an additional weekly timeslot at the Vet's Cafe to make it accessible for younger veterans who may work day jobs.

For those interested in participating in equine therapy at Building Bridges, Campbell extends an offer: visit the Vet's Cafe on a Thursday morning. The invitation includes families of veterans as well, and Campbell said he will show what the farm has to offer. "Immediately when you go up the driveway, there's a sense of comfort and safety," he added.

For more information, visit http://www.buildingbridgesfoundation.org.