The first time I volunteered at a kids event with the miniature horses my mind was all about helping the kids. What I didn't realize is how much I would get out of it - for me. There is a simple joy of being outside with kids having fun that just delighted the work-alcoholic me. Watching the kids discover how to interact with the horses, and end up loving "their" horse just makes you smile. There is a wonderful connected spirit in the barn - and everyone has fun. There is no doubt what the kids are experiencing - but I also keep returning for the joy it brings me. How lucky is that - giving and receiving!
Northwind Farm has been a wonderful experience for my family. I first heard about Northwind Farm in a magazine article that one of the community magazines had written. I saved the article, but waited a few months to call. My only regret is that I didn't call sooner! I My five year old son has autism and Miss Betty has been so kind to him and his younger brother. The boys really look forward to going. They brush, feed, and walk the horses. They each have a favorite horse they like to groom. We have been visting for about 6 months. We have always been treated kindly and the horses are treated just as well! You can tell this organization has a heart for people and animals.
Finding Ms Betty and NorthWind Farm was such a blessing for my family. We were going through a very difficult time, my husband had recently passed away. My youngest daughter, at the time was 7,had no experience with horse, but loved them. She began coming to Ms. Betty's every week, working with the mini's and she loved it! She began to come out of shell, I can not explain it, but somehow the horses truly helped her. She ended up showing a mini in the Williamson County Livestock Show and won several blue ribbons. Both my daughters and I volunteer at NorthWind Farm and we believe that what Ms. Betty does is amazing!
Review from Guidestar
The concept behind NorthWind Farm is great for allowing children to open up to a horse, and interact on a consistent basis. All of the horses are excellent with children, and enjoy the interaction. The focus of the organization is grief therapy, and therapy for those with special needs. When the children come out to interact with the horses, there is never a frown on a face. The horses love the attention, and the children love to work with the horses and challenge them in any way possible. If needed, families are allowed to come out on a one-on-one basis, and have their children pet/groom/work with a horse of their choosing, and gradually begin to open up.
The most exciting part of working with these animals, is to see how they sense the needs of the child, and they assist the child in building confidence and enjoyment in life.
Review from Guidestar