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Causes: Animal-Related, Animals
Mission: Our goal is to improve the lives of children and adults in need in our community through interaction with our gentle animals, including children facing life-threatening illness, those living with special needs, those facing family challenges such as homelessness or domestic violence, veterans and active military, those who are incarcerated, and senior citizens.
Programs: Animals helping childrenthis program enables children to spend time with a four-legged friend -- patting, grooming, feeding, and experiencing the unconditional love of a gentle animal. We have miniature horses, goats, bunnies, guinea pigs, chickens, babydoll sheep and even a cat! For those clients who are physically able, a ride in the pony cart is great fun! For those children who are unable to travel, or for a group of children in a facility (hospital, residential program or homeless shelters), our mobile unit can bring animals to visit! Served 1,598 children in need in 2017
horsebuddiethis is a unique experiential learning program where horses provide the mode of learning. On- and off-horse activities positively contribute to the cognitive, physical and emotional well-being of our special needs students. Horses offer youth an unparalleled experience that is both physical and social. Horses are completely in touch with, and aware of, the present moment, and they powerfully invite people to do the same. They are nonjudgmental; they do not see status, gender, race or ability; rather they act in response to the environment and energy. Caring for and riding horses is a thoroughly enjoyable experience, which provides both physical activity and promotes personal challenges. Served 350 children with special needs in 2017.
horseheroesthis program is offered to veterans, wounded warriors, and active military. An experiential learning program where horses provide the mode of learning and healing. On- and off-horse activities positively contribute to the cognitive, physical and emotional well-being of our veterans. Some benefits include improved flexibility, balance, muscle strength, coordination and core strength. Other benefits include improved ability to manage emotions including anxiety, anger and fears. Relationships are developed and nurtured: veteran to self, veteran to horse, veteran to others and veteran to the world at large. Additionally, veterans participating in our program report improved self-esteem and self-confidence. Served 165 veterans and active military in 2017