Hearts & Horses

I joined the Hearts & Horses community almost 3 years ago, but have known about them since they started. The difference they make in the lives of their riders, volunteers and the community as a whole is truly amazing! I am honored to be a part of this wonderful organization!

I volunteer at Hearts & Horses and am impressed every time I’m there how much the instructors and the horses change the lives of those they serve. I work with a little boy who in just a few months has evolved so beautifully it brings tears to my eyes. Hearts and Horses is definitely one of the top organizations I’ve been involved with.

I have over 17 years of experience volunteering at another high quality therapeutic riding center, and I just started at Hearts and Horses this year. This place is beyond impressive. All staff is friendly and helpful, and the riders are a joy to work with. The training they provide volunteers is thoughtful and effective. I’ve been very touched by their willingness to help every one participate, even providing individual training abs shadowing opportunities. Their attention to detail is clear, and their facilities are top-notch. I can’t recommend this place enough.

My son is a young adult with Down syndrome. The leaders and volunteers are knowledgeable and thoughtful and kind to my son. They adapt to his needs to help him reach the goals they created for him to succeed. He loves riding 'his' horse and learning new skills.

My absolute favorite place to volunteer!! I love the prgrams, the staff, the other volunteers and the equines. Everyone works together to create magical experiences for our participants. It just doesn’t get much better than this!!!

In the past I've avoided volunteering. The biggest deterrents: organizations were too disorganized, lacked clear directions, lacked clear communication and more. That all changed with Hearts & Horses. No rinky-dink operation here. This is a world-class equine therapy barn, impeccably clean, wonderfully organized and loaded with professionals and incredible mammals--four-legged and two-legged. If you need a reminder that goodness thrives in this world, look no further than Hearts & Horses. From the minute you enter the main building, you feel at home. Friendly folks abound. From the minute you apply to volunteer, you follow a clear path to rewarding engagement whether you are a paid employee, a client, or a volunteer. Ample training is offered (and required) for all volunteers. Patient instructors instill confidence. It's that constant encouraging that builds confidence in all who participate--staff, clientele, animals and volunteers--at Hearts & Horses. But beyond praise and good feelings, you'll find proof in science-based studies. The multi-faceted Equine therapy programs offered at Hearts & Horses work. Great non-profit is an understatement.

The entire staff and volunteer crew are so passionate about the work that they do, and the lasting impact they have on all visitors at the ranch. It is so rewarding to work with so many incredible people and to be able to help so many different communities

This is a group of incredible staff and volunteers. Everyone pulls together as a team and genuinely cares about the work done here. The horses are very well cared for and the humans are great to work for. Love all of them.

This is an organization that walks its talk and has been a local presence for a very long time. The heart in the Hearts & Horses is clear when you see the lives of children, adults and Veterans that have directly been changed for the better.

Hearts & Horses continues to inspire me everyday. The mission serves a wide range of people with special needs that almost anyone can find a meaningful connection. It helps so many with their programming and also the staff, volunteers and supporters have a fulfilling place to connect with each other, the herd and the love that unfolds there everyday!

I have been a member of the Hearts & Horses community for a year and a half now. I have seen firsthand the life-changing impact of their programming, including veterans beginning to heal from PTSD, children gaining new mobility, older adults with dementia finding joy, and so much more. Hearts & Horses is truly a cornerstone of the Northern Colorado community, and I feel so lucky to be a part of it!

I have been volunteering with H&H for the past 6 months. the staff is warm, welcoming, professional, and available. I have never seen a place more attentive to heir volunteers or horses. My fellow volunteers have truly become friends!

I’ve been a volunteer at Hearts and Horses since 2019 and since that time I have seen the difference they make in people’s live’s everyday. They are sincere in their mission and compassionate and caring to all involved!

I've been a volunteer with Hearts & Horses since April of this year, and my experience has been nothing short of exceptional. The facilities are beautiful, and my Friday morning shifts working with the Barn Team (best people ever!) are Zen-like. Truly.

The H&H staff is deeply committed to the health and wellness of these magnificent horses and the wonderful people benefiting from their therapeutic abilities. More, they routinely express their gratitude to the many volunteers who share in realizing the H&H mission. Huge shout out to Trudy and Mike (two staff I work alongside most often).

I've invested time volunteering for different organizations throughout my adult life, and my commitment to H&H has absolutely been one of the most rewarding.

Ann DeForest

My husband and I both volunteer at H&H. We are senior citizens. We have had many health and emotional challenges the past couple of years. The warmth and love we are given every time we are there has made our lives treated as volunteers just as blessed as all who come seeking help at the ranch. I pray that more know how blessed many are to have them!

Hearts and Horses and Mohica, Nugget, Karen and Jacy have changed my granddaughter’s life. She smiles more and her confidence is beautiful to see. Everyone at H and H have amazing attitudes and you can see the love of their jobs, paid or volunteer ,on their faces. I’m just there to drop off my granddaughter for her class but even I leave feeling great!!!!

I have worked for this organization on and off for over 20 years. There could not be a more direct impact your donation could have. The ED ensures that the organization is streamlined, there are NO inflated executive salaries, and the donation money is funneled to benefit the riders and horses More directly than any other organization has accomplished!!!

My senior year of college at Colorado State University, I was looking for an internship. I had a couple options but as soon as I stepped through the doors at Hearts & Horses I knew it was where I was supposed to be. The volunteers and the staff always greeted me with the biggest smiles and it was so clear from day one that the work they do there is tremendously meaningful. I wanted to find purpose in my internship and I could not have found a place that cares more about their community, both humans and animals. No matter where I go in life I know that Hearts & Horses will always be a part of my being. My most sincere thank you for this place, the people, and the animals for changing my life for the better.

Hearts & Horses is a magical place of belonging and healing for riders, volunteers and instructors alike. Horses are very intuitive and they just seem to know when a rider needs their love and support and each of them provide that healing in their own special ways. It is an amazing and beautiful thing to witness. One of my riders is extremely happy when he arrives each week for class; he waves his hands in the air, claps and has a huge smile on his face. At the end of every class, he wraps his arms around the horse's neck to thank her & to show her how much he loves her. I also had the privilege of watching a 99 year-old rider trot on his horse for the first time in many years and witness the tears in his eyes because he was happy and thankful for the memories. Volunteering at Hearts & Horses is an absolute privilege and joy for me.

Hearts & Horses is an amazing, caring equine and human therapy program, which helps veterans suffering from PTSD, children and adults, who have physical and mental challenges, seniors, with memory care issues and children-at-risk of violence. In addition to those individuals, Hearts & Horses helps horses, who need a good home, good nutrition and a large, equine and human family to love them. Finally, Hearts & Horses, while helping all of those, helps its volunteers to not only give back, but to receive the love, encouragement and support that is cultivated and encouraged in every program, staff member, volunteer, student and visitor.

I've been at Hearts and Horses for about 6 months now as a Horse Leader volunteer. I have had a chance to connect with new people, which has widened my sense of community. Staff and other volunteers go out of their way to educate and make sure everyone is feeling comfortable and always keeping it a positive environment. The horses of course are amazing to get to know. Recently I had the opportunity to work with a new population. Veterans. It has been an honor to lead the horses and be a part of giving the veterans an opportunity to soak in their calm gentle spirit and see healing happening. Everyone benefits at H&H in one way or another. Magical.

I have volunteered here for about a year and have felt so welcomed and genuinely appreciated the entire time. Working with and watching those who participate in the classes and benefit from working with these beautiful horses has been wonderful. I love that they take safety into consideration for workers, volunteers, participants, and the horses too! There’s never a shortage of smiles and helping hands.

I retired last year and was anxious to find volunteer work. I had been to the Hearts and Horses amazing gala in years past and thought this would be perfect fit as I have experience with horses, it would be a great opportunity.
The experience has exceeded my expectations! The staff is wonderful. They all have incredible knowledge and professionalism. The facility is amazing. The horses have EXCELLENT care!!!
I am in awe of the relationship between the riders/student and the horses. The instructors are so well focused on that relationship, you see it in the rider's happiness.
BEST place ever to volunteer, I feel very lucky to have the opportunity!

Hearts & Horses is where magic happens every day! I am so grateful to be a part of such a special organization. I volunteer on the barn team, as a sidewalker, as a horse leader, and as a team captain. The strides I watch participants make with each class are astonishing! Fellow volunteers start as teammates and turn into family. I give but the reality is, I receive so much more! I can’t imagine a more deserving organization for the Top-Rated Nonprofit Award!

The therapeutic equine programs help so many people in need. I’m proud to volunteer for a top-notch organization.

We recently moved to Colorado and were looking for a place to volunteer. We came across Hearts & Horses and went to an informative meeting. We were blown away with their organization, who they reached out to and how they treat their volunteers.
Hearts & Horses is an amazing place for those who utilize it and to be a volunteer.

I've been volunteering at Hearts & Horses for 3 years, and I absolutely love it! The therapeutic benefits of interacting with horses is so evident, and being able to be a part of such incredibly important work makes me feel wonderful.

I had a wonderful time as an intern at Hearts & Horses. The staff, volunteer, clients and horses were all amazing to work with. It was such a positive environment to work in. I always looked froward to the day I worked.

Hearts and horses is full of amazing people working with great horses to help everyone in the community! They are always welcoming and striving to help anybody from their riders to fellow volunteers!

Hearts and Horses has been the most rewarding and fun experience. I've met the most caring and helpful individuals. I can't wait to be at the barn and feel so happy and fulfilled. And of course, there's the horses who are so beautiful and well-behaved. I love it!!!

I have worked as a volunteer at Hearts & Horses since 2018. In the past, I have worked with a variety of other non-profit organizations. Hearts & Horses provides more effective services to their target populations than any other organization I have been involved with. The staff; administrators, instructors and animal caretakers, are highly skilled and truly dedicated. The improvements I have seen in their clients are extraordinary. This is truly a place were magic happens.

Hearts & Horses gave me purpose when I felt I had none. Caring, supportive, encouraging are words to describe the amazing staff there. I found myself without work and volunteered to care for the horses. It was amazing!! I have never done anything like this before and was a complete novice. The staff trained me and quickly I was ready to join the Barn Team, volunteer as a side walker, and work with the special programs offered at Hearts & Horses. The work here is the most important I have ever been involved with. Watching participants engage with the horses and gain life changing benefits is pure JOY!!

The community at Hearts & Horses is such a welcoming and warming environment!

Hearts and Horses does so much for so many people! Their impact is so wide reaching, and it’s amazing to get to witness!

As a Veteran I have witnessed first hand how Hearts and Horses programs can make a huge difference in a persons life
As a Volunteer, I get to see the results from at risk youth, to Alzheimer's patience, to veterans and the list goes on.

The differences in peoples lives are seldom miniscule. To see the results first hand is mind boggling.

Hearts & Horses has the best MISSION in the world and I couldn't imagine a better place in the world to spend my time!

Hearts and Horses equine therapeutic riding center is a light foward for folks of all ages, walks of life and abilities. Life long learning and healing occur on a daily basis at this very special welcoming place. Opportunities to participate in Autism research, Veterans classes, Altzheimer's Riding in the Moment, Hospice grief counseling groups, hippotherapy and so much more.

I was given permanent custody of my three grandchildren 11 years ago and the children are now 12, 12 and 14. They were physically and emotionally broken. We have been blessed with scholarships for the 5 1/2 years. It has been such a joy for me and numerous instructors and volunteers to watch these children overcome fears and over the years blossom into the kind and loving persons that we knew were hiding inside!

I am in the process of becoming a volunteer. As I was waiting in the lobby I walked to an observation glass where I watched one of the personnel that works with children. As I saw the smile on this child’s face it melted my heart. I could feel her joy and feel confidence this amazing horse was given her. After a look at the entire facility I knew this was where I wanted to volunteer my time ! To make a difference! There needs to be more places like this amazing one I witnessed! This is what makes the difference we dream up for those who need special care❤️������

After having a brain tumor at 35 years old and not being able to walk, my therapy horse walked for me! He was my arms my legs and my eyes. This place teaches you that you have adaptabilities not disabilities! it's complete sanctuary where everybody has a purpose in a place regardless of their history or their background or their abilities! As an adult it's hard to find peace of mind this day and age but here this place has a one-of-a-kind environment that is welcoming, loving, understanding, and so many more wonderful things! The detail that every one of the people involved with this place and everything they put into it is incredible! It's a place where as an adult when you volunteer and one of your child riders progresses to the next level you swell with pride to the point of tears! It is a place where everybody truly belongs!

I have volunteered or worked for 6 different NPOs in my life, all of them focused on helping children or animals in some way. H&H has been my favorite volunteer experience of all. The work we do, the respect we feel, the smiles we create, the progress we get to witness, the bonds formed... this is a positive place that changes lives and I am honored to have been a part of it, every single session, for 3 years now!

It is true that magic happens every day at Hearts & Horses Therapeutic Riding Center. When I chose to volunteer in 2017, I had no idea the impact the staff, volunteers, and herd, would have on my life. Hearts & Horses is truly a sanctuary and treasure in our community. It is an outstanding example of what can happen when a group of people combine outstanding leadership, professionalism, teamwork, and heart.

My daughter had some trauma early on from her father. We found Hearts & Horses and she started with the changing leads program and then went on to vaulting. Hearts & Horses and the wonderful staff and of course the horses, especially Ben & Zulu have changed her life. She's come out of her shell, become more confident and developed self esteem. I can't thank this place enough, it's like family and they truly care!

My dad, Bob, suffered a stroke in 2000. Hearts and Horses helped him go from an unbalanced gait to walking with a cane. He looked forward to going every week. The staff (and horses) seemed like part of the family. We will be forever grateful for the wonderful volunteers and staff. They helped my dad not only ride independently but gave him hope and something to look forward to.

Moved to Colorado over a year ago. As a retired teacher this is a wonderful place to feel helpful.....besides get my outdoor/horse energy! So impressed with caring professional staff and amazing fellow volunteers! So glad to have found Hearts and Horses!!

Beautiful people and animals abound at this nonprofit ranch of pure goodness! My experience as a volunteer was beyond heartwarming on all levels. What a blessing for anyone involved in this organization, we are so grateful to have Hearts & Horses in our midst!!
Thank you all for all you do!

Years ago when I started working with Veterans and horses, I visited many therapeutic programs throughout the country. It was not until I came to Hearts and Horses that I knew I had landed home. The professionalism, the care from the heart for clients, horses and one another is palpable, a testament to the name Hearts & Horses. As a psychologist working with the veterans program, I am so moved by the care for the horses, and staff, the dedication, the organizations mission and implementation of services.

The staff here is incredible, the experience of watching how these kids interact with their horses and instructors is something that is very rare in this world. To be able to put my time and energy towards what Hearts and Horses does is a blessing very little compares to.

I started volunteering with Hearts and Horses this year and highly recommend it to those looking for a meaningful volunteer experience, as well as to those in the community who are interested in their services. Great staff and volunteers provide an inclusive and welcome environment for all visitors, riders, and families. They really go the extra mile for their clients!

Hearts & Horses is such a warming environment to be a part of. I have volunteered for about a year am currently an intern; I love being around the staff, other volunteers, participants, and the horses. It is always a good experience at Hearts & Horses.

I am an intern at Hearts and Horses, and so far, my experience has been nothing short of amazing. The staff and other volunteers are kind and helpful, especially to someone like me who is still learning. It’s an extremely calm and relaxing atmosphere, and it feels very welcoming. I’m excited to see what else my internship here holds, and I recommend Hearts and Horses for volunteers and participants alike.

Hearts and Horses is such a family environment! They make you feel welcome from the moment you walk through the doors and there is always something cool and exciting going on! They love what they do and it shows in everything they do from providing support to riders to just giving you a smile through the door and of course caring for the sweet horses themselves. It truly is a blessing and an honor to be apart of such a wonderful place.

Hearst & Horses is an exceptional non profit organization located in Loveland, CO. It offers various programs that support the development and well being of people through equine therapy services. It is a loving and supportive community that I am proud to be apart of.

Barn Team Volunteers be advised any concerns, suggestions, or complaints will not be addressed by the volunteer manager nor the director. Keep your comments to yourself and expect to be ignored or they will not allow you to volunteer. Watch your back !!!

Hearts and Horses not only changes lives for its clients and volunteers but is an amazing place to work! I just love my fellow coworkers!! It’s a true team and everyone cares for each other!

Heart's and Horses is by far the best volunteer work I've done in my life. The program is exceptional and the volunteers and staff are amazing! The joy on everyone's faces, riders and volunteers alike is beyond rewarding. Watching confidence grow, seeing how the equines treat everyone along with the general atmosphere is extraordinarily positive.
Heart's and Horses always is in my heart and conversations about how amazing the programs are!

Words can't really express how amazing it is to be able to interact with the horses. I am anxious to return very soon. The staff is so welcoming. Just amazing at how much I learned.

My horse and I have been involved with Hearts and Horses for ten years. I've met some amazing people and been lucky enough to be a small part of their lives and she's gotten top-notch care, lots of love, and a new mission in life. There aren't enough words to say about how amazing this place is!

Hearts and Horses is an amazing organization that helps people gain skills- they provide many opportunities including classes for people with dementia, physical and mental diabilities, kids at risk and vets plus many other opportunities to create that special bond with a horse- this bond has been scientifically proven to help people through many different difficult situations- as a volunteer, I have been given the greatest gift to work with this organization.

Hearts & Horses is an amazing place that strives every day to make a difference in it's participants lives! It seems that everyone who steps foot on the property is touched by the magic that happens at Hearts & Horses.

Hearts & Horses is an amazing place that is helping such a wide population of under-served people in the Northern Colorado Community. I know that every dollar that I've donated is going to a good cause because all of the programs are so impactful to people in need!

This place is so incredible! From the compassionate staff to the wonderful riders, I couldn’t think of an organization more fulfilling to be a part of.

One of the best non-profits I have come across in my years of volunteering. We are so lucky to have them in our community

I have been blessed to provide therapy services for children and adults utilizing the movement of the horse as the therapeutic tool for the past 10 years at Hearts and Horses, Inc. For most of them, therapy has been a way of life since they were very young. Watching them experience normal movement on the back of the horse, engaging all the sensory systems, and enjoying themselves in a therapeutic environment with smiles and laughter is the most heart warming thing you will ever see. In many ways, it's therapy for me as well as my clients. I could not think of a better job than this!

We are so fortunate to have Hearts & Horses in our community!

What hasn't already been said 9,000 times over already? I have never seen a non-profit organization that is so caring at every single level of the organization. From the caring staff & employees, volunteers, board members, and all the equines, everyone truly pours their hearts and souls into caring for others!!! I am extremely proud to be an intern/volunteer with this organization & hope this is only the beginning of my journey with Hearts & Horses!!!

Hearts and Horses is an amazing organization. We were fortunate to become a supporter of this organization and see the effective work they are doing.

Watching the bond that happens between humans who need help connecting with the world as we know it, and the special horses that offer their hearts and souls to that connection is a beautiful thing. Thank you, Hearts and Horses, for what you to to help those souls come together, for healing. Juni Fisher www.junifisher.com

Hearts and Horses is the ultimate non profit organization. Not only have they helped youth in our community find peace and love, they helped my son build confidence in his experience there. Forever grateful for their amazing work.

I have worked with Hearts and Horses in many capacities, from volunteer to Board member, and I can honestly say that this is one of the best run, most successful programs available for those in need. From working with the disabled, to veterans, to at-risk youth, to Alzheimer's patients, the pairing of horses to help heal is an amazing thing to witness. And Hearts and Horses has an amazingly caring staff and crew of dedicated volunteers that makes it all come together!

I've been volunteering at Hearts and Horses since 2011 and have been privileged to be a part of many of the wonderful programs they offer. I have a special place in my heart for the Changing Leads program and am amazed at the changes we see in these at risk kids as they develop a relationship with our wonderful horses...they learn to trust and share and we see that it gives them a safe place to be themselves. Being a part of Hearts and Horses had been the most rewarding thing I've ever done!

I have volunteered with this organization in the past and can speak firsthand for the joy that it brings to those children and adults who are dealing with difficult issues. They may not know they are receiving therapy because Hearts and Horses brings emotional and physical growth in such a wonderful and caring way. And, as an aside, the horses are treated so well !!

It’s where magic happens every day! People’s lives are transformed through their interactions with equines, volunteers and instructors. The professionalism and care for humans and equines goes above and beyond the call of duty.

I have volunteered with this organization in the past and can speak firsthand for the joy that it brings to those children and adults who are dealing with difficult issues. They may not know they are receiving therapy because Hearts and Horses brings emotional and physical growth in such a wonderful and caring way. And, as an aside, the horses are treated so well !!

My son absolutely loves this place, the horses, instructors, and volunteers. They have been amazing for my autistic child and he has had so much growth. We are so greatful for their scholarship program because without it and them I'm sure we would not have as many good days as we do. My son tells everyone about his 'horse therapy' and is the one thing he looks forward to every week.

I have never experienced a more transformative, welcoming, supportive environment than Hearts & Horses. From a volunteer perspective, they are extremely well organized and make the process of volunteering fun, fulfilling, and useful. The lives that have been changed by this organization is innumerable. Can't say enough good things about this place!

Hearts & Horses is a very special place bringing much joy to everyone who works/volunteers there and especially to the many clients who gain so much from their experiences with the horses.
A truly magical place with amazing staff

I have been a volunteer with Hearts and Horses for almost 8 years and it has been the most rewarding experience of my life! My favorite program to help with is the Changing Leads program for at risk youth. The staff is so well trained to work with these kiddos and the program they've put together with the local school districts and other agencies is just amazing. Each class provides us with the ability to see how much the horses can help the students feel accepted and cared for and I'm proud to be a small part of that. All of the programs at Hearts and Horses are special. The instructors and staff are passionate about what they do and it shows! As volunteers, we are trained in any areas that we need help with and are acknowledged for our roles and contributions.

I became involved with hearts and horses because of my love for horses. After volunteering in a few classes I fell in love with the riders. It was a great opportunity to help those riders accomplish greatness with their horse companions. I especially enjoyed working with at risk youth, seeing them pair up with their horse partner and achieve their goal

My 3 grandkids are out there at Hearts and horses. It has given them the confidence in themselves that nobody else could have. They look so forward to going every week to get on the horse, love on their horses, learn, and see the gang of adults that are with them. It is their place where they go and learn and no one judges them if they can't do it. I love the positive atmosphere. It has made a difference in my grandkids.

I walked into the Larimer County Fairgrounds building in 1996. I met Peggy Stewart at the booth for Hearts and Horses. We talked for awhile. I signed up as a volunteer.

To my absolute joy, I became a horse leader, became part of the board, totally enjoyed manning the booth at events, organized events, and had my own horse in the program for a time.

One of my favorite memories:
One young boy came into the program. He couldn't look up at anyone and definitely couldn't talk to anyone. He clung to his family and it was difficult to go to anyone. But he came every time and participated in class the best he could. However by the end the session he was talking to everyone, looking them in the eye and laughing during his class!! Then I saw him hugging the staff on his way out of the barn.

This organization has grown to help so many different groups of people. I truly have enjoyed watching it grow.

The calm and love I feel when I drive onto the ranch is so palpable in my own heart it sometimes brings tears to my eyes.

This world is a better place because of Hearts and Horses.

Traci Stewart  (Flatt)
Founding Member

One of the best decisions I've ever made is volunteering at hearts and horses. My love for horses brought me here. It is heaven for me and I could spend all day every day over there. The people are great. Sometimes we Volunteers don't know each other but we certainly have one thing in common. The love for horses and for people. So, we become friends in a unique way. The staff is wonderful. Very professional, extremely skilled and so dedicated. It is just fun and a pleasure to work with all of them. It is very rewarding to help at hearts and horses and when you see and feel the change in the riders face turning into a big smile, joy and happiness - well, that is just priceless. I surly intend to help there for a long time.

I grew up in the area with horses and always heard about Hearts & Horses. The timing was never right for me to volunteer until recently. Now I wish I would have gotten involved earlier. I feel like I have a second home. The staff and volunteers are so welcoming. It is truly amazing to see the progression their students make physically, mentally, socially and emotionally after working with the horses. They have so many programs to fit every person's needs. I look forward to more years there!

I've been a volunteer at Hearts & Horses for about a year. I'm so impressed with the professionalism and sincerity of all of the staff and volunteers. Watching the riders overcome their challenges and seeing their smiling faces is one of the main reasons why Hearts & Horses is my happy place. If I had it my way, I would be there every day. The instructors are thoughtful and caring and the safety of the riders is always their priority. I plan to to a volunteer and a part of this organization for a very long time.

Our daughter Hannah had significant trouble with balance and her confidence level with activities related to balance and coordination. Because of Hearts and Horses not only had she learned to ride horses but had also been able to conquer her extreme fear of riding bikes. Her confidence in other activities has also soared and enabled her to do things she would not have chosen to participate in such as volleyball and acting! We are so very grateful for Hearts and Horses and their awesome staff and volunteers!

I started volunteering about a year ago. I have gained great friends and experiences in life from Hearts and Horses. I am truly excited to go every day and help different riders with different things. I have learned so much from Hearts and Horses and I hope to continue for a very long time!!

The transformations that occur at Hearts and Horses on a daily basis are undeniable. There is such majesty happening here because of the perfect combination of people we serve, our volunteers, our equines and our staff. This is a place where people come to heal and feel good and never does a day pass where the positivity of this environment isn't infectious in the most beautiful way. The care for every person and equine is handled in a most professional manner and without bounds and is, I believe, the core of our success.

I began my time with Hearts and Horses as an intern, and was quickly made to feel at home by the staff, volunteers, riders and horses. I now go to work every day truly excited by what I do and the people that I get to share my day with. The staff is not only highly qualified and professional, but also deeply passionate about their work, spending hours outside of their time at the ranch trying to figure out what is best for their riders and horses. The volunteers are so dedicated to the horses and riders that sometimes I have to stop and remind myself that they don't need to be out here cleaning stalls - they make the choice to help each and every day and for that I am so grateful. I work with brand new volunteers, jumping in even though they still aren't quite sure where they'll find their role, and volunteers who have been with the same riders for over 5 years, and all of them bring joy, energy and love to the property. Watching my riders progress both in the riding skills and towards their personal goals is incredible, and I feel very lucky to have the horses, volunteers and other supports that I need to set them up for success. Something very special can happen when you put a person on a horse - suddenly some of the obstacles in the real world don't matter quite as much - and, at Hearts and Horses, I have the privilege of seeing this magic every day.

The program weaves compassion with genuine love of helping and healing. I am blessed to be able to witness and assist with some of this growth - of individuals improving their physical and emotional functions. Not only have I seen and heard how much using the therapeutic tool of the horse enhances each riders life, almost every volunteer receives their own 'therapeutic' victory when they give their time and receive the tangible joy that is felt at Hearts & Horses on a daily basis. This is truly a 5 star organization.

I came to volunteer for a class 5 years ago and never left because this program is so magical. Oh, the touching stories I could tell from the at-risk youth program, Changing Leads. The benefits my 6 year old grandson gets from his lessons. The thrill I have working with the new horses in my riding lessons. The fun and silliness the miniature horse and I share working with Alzheimer's patients or greeting school kids. The amazing people I meet through running the tack shoppe. It's not just the clients who benefit from Hearts and Horses, but the volunteers reap benefits they never would expect. It's my favorite part of the week!

I started volunteering in 2012 and it has been the most inspirational and motivating thing I have ever done! I have encouraged others to come out and bring their kids to learn about giving back to their community, working with the wonderful equines, and just be a part of something bigger than themselves! A truly magical place

I am not only a volunteer with Hearts and Horses, I and my whole family are also recipients of H&H services. We love H&H. It is a very professional organization that treats all of the people and animals involved in a respectful, professional, fun, caring way. Every horse is beloved. Every rider is encouraged, challenged, and yet still kept safe. I have yet to meet a less-than-enthusiastic volunteer and every staff member is a dedicated, highly experienced expert in their field. Our family has been riding and volunteering with H&H for over 3 years now and we look forward to our time at the barn, in the arena, and on the trail. I particularly have appreciated the ways in which H&H has encouraged every member of our family to ride, even creating special all-ages all-abilities classes for us with a great, PATH-certified therapist/instructor so that our whole family can enjoy horseback riding together.

Hearts & Horses is a well established, accredited and highly respected equine therapeutic facility. They follow standards set forth by PATH Inc. )Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International) which sets the safety standards in this industry. As a certified therapeutic riding instructor also certified by PATH int. I highly recommend this organization.

A veteran said it in a review of the program at H & H to address their physical and mental challenges and socialization difficulties after returning from service, "When I saw the staff it was like they were saying alright we are family and there is no judgment here, we all know what can be the physical and mental challenges carried by an individuals and what it is like to not be able to enjoy who you are and we work to remove those challenges and to build independence and a freedom and enjoyment of life that comes from that in small steps "...and there is not only support from the staff and volunteers but others involved and around you. In the Vets case it was other vets who understood as it is with young people, teens at risk and even elders with limited capacity to remember and move about with ease.
The strength of this organization is not only the people but the use of horses which do not judge either but give unconditional respect and support and bonding.
This is why the program has so many life-long supporters and friends as extended family and a place where you hear laughter and enjoyment from those they serve and those who give the care who get to enjoy the successes right along with them.
Hearts and Horses brings unbelievable outcomes, laughter, fun and life friendships.

I have been sponsoring Hearts and Horses for the past sixteen years, since they first acquired the property and have seen it grow from practically nothing to the most extensive, comprehensive and outstanding therapeutic riding facility that I have ever seen. I am so proud of everyone who participates and how my donations are always put to the very best use! This is a community that has become a mutually supportive family on EVERY level. Keep up the GREAT way you enhance our world...one life at a time!

Working with horses is fun and therapeutic ... helping disadvantaged riders at the same time is the icing on the cake.

My name is Sue Manks and for the year of 2012 we have been living in Loveland, Colorado. Before I came to Loveland I was looking up Therapeutic Riding Centres as I was interested in them and the possibility of one being accessible for me to perhaps visit while I was here. On my arrival I found that a wonderful facility was only 10 -15 mins (depending how quickly you drive) away and that they were looking for Volunteers. It was meant to be and it has been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done. It has moved me to tears, made me laugh and inspired me to believe that anything you want to achieve is possible. From the wonderful horses, dedicated staff/volunteers, and phenomenal riders it is a joy to be able to be involved there for a few days each week and it has definitely enriched my stay here in the US.

I have been with this organization for over six years. The participants who are helped grow by leaps and bounds! Volunteers are also touched by the love and compassion that is shared here. My time here is very much appreciated and it keeps me coming back!