My 30 year old daughter has autism and a seizure disorder. We became involved with ELSA a year ago, and it has been wonderful for her! My daughter participates in numerous activities, but going to the ranch is the one to which she most looks forward. She loves riding the horses, and helping to care for them. She has so much fun, but she is also learning actual riding skills in a safe and beautiful environment. This has improved her self-confidence and her self-esteem. She is so proud of herself for what she accomplishes at ELSA! We are so fortunate that such a beneficial program like this is available, and I encourage anyone with a child with special needs to check it out. ELSA days are the happiest days!!
My son has a very rare genetic condition called Phelan McDermid Syndrome (a mutated shank3 gene). Parenting him has been challenging - but one of the best parts of parenting him is finding the beauty in non-profits like ELSA. I learned about ELSA through the special needs community grapevine. ELSA holds events frequently that are free, educational and therapeutic. Most importantly, they do not discriminate, no matter what your challenge, or your child's challenge, you feel welcomed at ELSA's Ranch! They go to all lengths to make sure to include all participants and to make sure that the events are fun and safe by limiting the number of guests - so to no overwhelm. I am very thankful to know that places like ELSA exist and look forward to future events with them!
I am a teacher of a public school with students with disabilities, and we attend ELSA's Ranch Skills program once a week. This program has been instrumental in the development of my students socially, academically, and emotionally. Susan and her staff are filled with kindness and energy to create a wonderful learning environment. The location of the Ranch is just stunning and provides my students with scenery they are typically not exposed to. The horses are well trained and create such a wonderful connection to the students. I could not be more satisfied with our experience at ELSA. THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for allowing my students to be part your program!
I have gotten to know Susan over the last few weeks and she is such an amazing woman. Everything from her comes from a place in her heart. The horses are loved and taken care of so wonderfully, they offer such healing and unconditional love to the client they offer such healing and unconditional love.