SonRise Equestrian Foundation

Great people, great horses, great program!!
Before SonRise we had no idea what horse therapy could help children with special needs achieve.

Truely a blessing to the children and families!!

Both of my daughters have received services through SonRise Equestrian Foundation, Sophia with Team Equine, and Victoria with Junior in the Saddle. I’ve witnessed Sophia speak in public and demonstrate how to walk and care for the horses, which was very impressive, given her reserved quiet nature. Victoria absolutely loves riding the horses, and has blossomed in her understanding letters, numbers, and following directions. She is truly a natural. Thanks to all the staff for giving them both such an opportunity.

SonRise Equestrian Foundation offers amazing services to our local community and underserved families. Equine therapy is such a specialized and unique way to reach children with special needs. SonRise staff and volunteers work very hard to make each lesson and program as beneficial as possible to each of their participants. I have had the joy and privilege working alongside other volunteers during SonRise's traveling tails program and In The Saddle programs. Watching children's faces light up in a hospital bed while a mini horse comes in to visit is very touching. Being able to help children with special needs find the strength and confidence to ride such an impressive animal is awesome! Looking over to see the astonished and joyful looks on the parents faces as they watch their child accomplish something new is priceless. I am so grateful for SonRise's continued pursuit of service to our community through free services to kids with special needs. What a special and much needed organization!

The work they do is wonderful
It really helps the kids with things that make them feel good and a BIG smile

We are so fortunate that our daughter has the opportunity to be a rider with SonRise Equestrian Foundation! Everyone that works with her is patient and has a positive attitude. They are diligent at keeping her attention and safe at all times. She gets to participate in a variety of activities with each riding session, working to improve her postural strength, motor control, attention and anticipation/reaction time. She thoroughly enjoys riding and trotting on the horses and looks forward to each session!

I volunteer here at Sonrise Equestrian and ever shift is an amazing experience. I love meeting new kids and getting to watch them grow as riders around the horses. Watching kids go through the program and graduating with confidence and pride brings warmth to the heart of anyone.

SonRise Equestrian Foundation is the BEST nonprofit around! I have been volunteering with SonRise for 12 years now and I have seen the amazing work they do for children with special needs. Each child that comes to SonRise gets a tailored lesson or experience with the horses based on what he or she needs. But not only that, the people at SonRise genuinely care for these children. They put their heart and souls into improving children's lives. The people of SonRise also put so much time and effort into making sure the horses of SonRise are properly trained and well cared for, so they can do their best for these children. You won't find a better equine therapy group than SonRise!

SonRise is a very special organization,a diverse group of Volenteers who enable handicapped children to interact with horses.I am honored to be among those volunteers of this nonprofit.

SonRise is amazing! Miriam, Alana and all the volunteers do wonderful work with the kids and take amazing care of all their horses.

For young people to be able to have the experience of enjoying the awesome feeling of riding in the setting of encouraging, knowledgeable and faithful staff and volunteers at Sonrise touches my heart beyond words. I feel it was summed up by a recent visually impaired boy whose horse experience prior had been just "the carousel type" exclaiming with a huge smile that this was "1,000 times better!!".

SonRise Equestrian Foundation has been a nonprofit that I am so grateful I got to be a part of. I had the opportunity to volunteer here and you could see the major impact that they play on these kids. They truly care about not only the kids but the horses as well. They strive to improve the children's skills and create an impact because they want every kid to leave knowing they have a positive environment that will always support them. They always want to make sure that both the kid and horse are comfortable. When I was working with the kids you could see their improvement in their ridding skills and most of the time knew what to do. This is a foundation that I believe has played a big role in these children's lives.

SonRise has always been my autistic son's highlight of the week since we first went there in 2018. He looks forward to going back to SonRise and meeting with all the horse friends. Alana and all the volunteers are so kind and warm to us. At SonRise, we found happiness and peace. Highly recommended!

My daughter loves SonRise!! She looks forward to going every week to Teen Equine, all ready with her boots on! Of all the therapies she does, this one with the horses and the amazing staff that works with our daughter (and the horses) are thoughtful & kind. They take the time to teach about the horses & how to care for them through hands on learning and with arts & crafts. So thankful for this organization!

In a nutshell, Sonrise is a blessing in our lives. They do an amazing job of supporting kids with neurodevelopmental and behavioral challenges by giving them access to therapeutic horseback -riding and activities with horses. Free of charge and with a wealth of experience, compassion and inclusivity.
In this post-pandemic world where mental health issues are on the spotlight more than ever, they listened to our call for help. They gave our son and us, his family, space and support, and continue to do so.
Their passion for the horses, for the work they do, their compassion and smiles make it impossible to not to want to be a part of and contribute to this wonderful organization.

The need for programs such as Sonrise Equestrian Foundation is huge!
I have been a volunteer for this program for almost 5 years. Alana does such a wonderful job running it. She is an amazing woman and dedicates so much time and energy to make this program consistently run safely and smoothly. Sonrise attracts such dedicated and wonderful volunteers. We truly are a family! When I watch the children that benefit from this form of therapy, it uplifts me in so many ways. To observe their growth from equine therapy is the most rewarding feeling! When I am volunteering there I feel such love and happiness and it keeps me smiling all day.

As a volunteer with Sonrise Equestrian Foundation, I work primarily with the youth and children's riding programs as well as the "Traveling Tails" visiting miniature horse program. I have the joy of watching children's faces light up as they trot around the ring on one of the horses or have one of the miniature horses rest their muzzle in their hands and laps. In just a single session, parents and caregivers often remark on positive changes in these children such as a rare verbal expression or a smile that they rarely (or never) experience. Improvements in social skills, confidence, balance, and a sense of independence are all witnessed as these children take part in these unique programs. Sonrise Equestrian offers hope and joy to families and their special needs children amidst their daily struggles and is an extremely valuable asset for those facing disabilities in our community.

I volunteer for Sonrise as a side walker. My main job is to make sure the kiddo stays safe and be ready to catch him or her if necessary:) I love this job! It is such a privilege working with these young folks. What a great feeling it is to see their beautiful smiles and know they are having so much fun. As many of our volunteers have said, we get as much out of this as the kids do. (Maybe more!)
This organization is so well run. There are many systems in place to keep the riders safe. I truly wish there were more places like this for special needs kids.

I have been volunteering with Sonrise Equestrian Foundation for around 8 years. It all started with my love and passion for horses mixed with a desire to help children with special needs. Sonrise Equestrian Foundation is the perfect opportunity for me to participate in such a rewarding activity, surrounded by other volunteers and instructors who are just as passionate about the children and horses as I am. Sonrise Equestrian has fabulous programs for children and teens with various special needs, from physical to emotional needs. The horses bring so much joy to both the participants and their parents, with smiles and giggles warming the hearts of all of us working with these special kids. Our programs are free to the participants, providing an opportunity for therapeutic riding to families that are experiencing so many difficulties already. I plan on continuing to volunteeer at Sonrise Equestrian for many years to come!

This is a great place for horse lovers to volunteer! My daughter has been so blessed by this organization.

SonRise Equestrian Foundation does a wonderful job serving their community. Dedicated volunteers give their time to this non-profit and enjoy helping the foundation thrive. There are plenty of opportunities to help with the ranch, side-walking with the kids they serve and even help with fundraising.

I volunteered with SonRise back in 2017- They have a great program for kids with special needs. The staff are super knowledgeable and kind, and the horses are very well trained and great at their jobs! The atmosphere is great- I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a place to get services, or volunteer.

SonRise Equestrian provides life-changing equestrian experiences for children who are other-abled. The staff carries out their vision of impacting each child with deep and tender interactions with their horses. Each horse seems to know exactly what each child needs to help them flourish in big and small ways. SonRise also brings their smaller horses to a facility that cares for children who are facing the unthinkable early end of their lives. The tenderness and peace between the horses and children brings tears to my eyes. Each staff member has a heart that is open and ready to serve these kids and their families. I love this organization!

Equine therapy for children with a variety of needs at no cost
Excellent staff, wonderful horses, serene setting and conveniently located in the east bay of the greater San Francisco Bay Area

Additionally they provide unique in hospital and hospice visits for children with a program called… Traveling tales

Exceptional example of a nonprofit serving the needs of the community at no cost

The last 3 months I’ve had the privilege of serving as a volunteer at Sonrise. I’m amazed at all the ways this organization lovingly serves kids! From Oakland Children’s Hospital visits with the mini-ponies to riding lessons and ranch-hand experiences for kids with physical and emotional needs. It is well organized and values safety for kids and horses! Love the heart behind all they do!

SonRise Equestrian foundation is fabulous Christian-based organization dedicated to improving the lives of children with special needs through therapeutic riding and ranch activities. As a volunteer I have experienced the magic and joy horses bring to sick children. An excited winnie to say hello, a gentle nuzzle on their cheek from our kind horses brings out smiles and giggles galore! I enjoy volunteering as a sidewalk during riding lessons the most. Watching these special children get on a horse for the first time, Is special. SonRise is truly a special place.

This is a fantastic organization please support them

I first started working at Sonrise right after I retired as a school teacher. I had known about this organization and knew it was the right place for me to give back and volunteer. Sonrise is such a wonderful place for adults and kids alike. There is tremendous dedication and love in every aspect of the work they do. One of the things that I most enjoy doing as a volunteer is working as a sidewalker and attending visits to nearby hospitals with the miniature horses. The absolute joy on the children's faces is priceless. You know they are getting so much joy and benefit from the experience. I feel very fortunate to be a part of this foundation.

SonRise does amazing work with speical needs children. The volunteers are well trained, kind individuals who love and care for these beautiful children. The horses are the gems of the team being so gentle and friendly with the children.

My daughter has only been riding with Sonrise for a few months but we have already noticed so many benefits. She is getting stronger and learning new skills that are increasing her self confidence. The volunteers are amazing- they are loving and in tune and truly care about my daughter's needs. We are so grateful for the program.

My son, Will, has Down syndrome and receives free therapy from Sonrise monthly. He adores the horses and takes pride in caring for them before riding. He has so much fun at his lesson that he doesn’t realize that he’s working. The activities require him to think, use hand eye coordination and work on core strength training. After his lessons, he enjoys telling me which horse he rode and all about the fun he had riding. Sonrise is a special organization and the people that work with Will are incredibly patient and loving.

I wanted to thank the SonRise organization for what they offer families of children with disabilities, including providing my 10 year old son who is on the autism spectrum with an opportunity to have an amazing experience riding horses. Besides being non-verbal he suffers from high levels of anxiety. The SonRise team on multiple occasions have shown him great patience. He's thoroughly enjoyed his sessions and the smiles we see on his face are priceless.

At SonRise, every volunteer's time and energy is valued, whether you are mucking stalls, grooming horses, or working with the teaching and sidewalking teams and the riders themselves. Better still, you always know exactly where you can help and what to do, thanks to Miriam and the passionate volunteers, some of who have been there since the start. I learned so much every day about horses and people, I felt like I should have been paying them.

Sonrise is a charity that I can give to and totally trust the reliability that all of the proceeds go to helping the challenged children that it blesses...I do not have to worry about wastefulness or mismanagement . The volunteers are experienced and well trained . The horses are well trained, taken care of and cooperative. There is no charge to the parents of the children and Sonrise schedules for the convenience of all involved. They go overboard to make sure there are no accidents and they even to children's hospitals with mini horses to bring smiles to their faces. I love this foundation.

Sonrise does an incredible job providing children with disabilities an opportunity to experience ranch life and time on horseback. The outreach programs at Children's Hospital and the George Marks House allow children who are hospitalized to spend time with beautiful miniature horses. This organization is absolutely exceptional.

SonRise Equestrian Foundation is an amazing nonprofit which has helped me grow as a person volunteering there. I’ve learned how to interact with children and this has helped me become a riding instructor at a different barn. I’ve also learned compassion by watching the other volunteers help the disabled children care and ride for the horses.

I have volunteered for Sonrise for many years and love it. The combination of kids and horses is the best. I love to see the difference it makes for each individual child.
Everyone who volunteers there is so caring. The community of Sonrise is really special and I am the one blessed by being a part of it!

This nonprofit is absolutely amazing. I had the pleasure of volunteering this year and the way it is run is so professional. The staff are welcoming and kind and they truly care about the kids they are helping. Sonrise as a whole responded really well to the pandemic, using necessary safety precautions while also making it possible for riders to experience most of what Sonrise typically offers. Their care of horses and their riders is simply exceptional and I recommend that everyone check them out. Sonrise provides children with the unique opportunity to grow in their confidence as a rider while also enhancing their physical and social well-being. It is such a blessing to have an organization like Sonrise helping others.

I have known the people who are the backbone of Sonrise for a number of years now. The detail and the day to day maintenance of a program like this is considerable. Everyday the care of these special animals and the organization of cleaning, exercising, training (both horses and volunteers) is truly an act of compassion for the end use....which is providing a lifeline to disabled children. I've seen it over and over. The smiles on the faces of children who face lives and difficulties most of us will never know. It is a great nonprofit dedicated to doing it safely and doing it right.

I’ve been at the same ranch, watching them grow from the first year, and have observed the program every week for over 10 years. They are AMAZING!!!
Professional, ethical, devoted volunteers and staff. I have seen their many different clients and heard the stories of their successes. I’ve seen the smiles and grins on the children’s faces, and their families. They make a significant impact in the region.

Please join me in supporting them. Every penny counts and is put to good use.

After attending a fundraiser several years ago for SonRise Equestrian, my husband and I were moved to become monthly supporters and occasional volunteers of this life-changing nonprofit. SonRise (the horses, the staff and its volunteers) is bringing hope to the children and their families who are developmentally and physically challenged . Donations are not wasted. Those who operate SonRise are invested personally, emotionally and financially. They work long, hard hours. My husband and I not only believe in the work SonRise is doing, we also consider it a privilege to be a tiny part of the impact they are making in the lives of others.

SonRise is a wonderful program for all who are involved, from the children, to parents, to siblings, and even the volunteers. We all benefit in one way or another. And none of it would be possible without the amazing horses who are special beyond words.

As a parent volunteer and retired police officer, I have seen SonRise fulfill a necessary role in assisting parents with developmentally disabled children and teenagers. SonRise shows kids they are cared for and loved not only by others, but also by the horses there at SonRise. It is a joy to see how young people are able to establish connections with the horses they have contact with. The teenage young adults I work with have much potential and it is a pleasure to see how fast learn and how much they can accomplish.

As the recipient of equestrian therapy when I was young, I know first hand the incredible sense of empowerment that comes from this type of therapy.

As a psychotherapist now later in life, I can fully appreciate the benefits of individuals working with horses in this capacity.

SonRise is the most incredibly well structured and encouraging environment one could imagine.

I have seen the tremendous support individuals who have participated in one of the many programs have benefited from.
The programs do not just impact the individuals directly involved, but have a lasting and remarkable positive impact on the entire family structure.

The relationship between horses and people might be mysterious to those who are not familiar with the beautiful animals. Horses are incredibly sensitive to to peoples’ needs and can provide healing in many aspects of one’s life.

SonRise provides a safe, nurturing environment that truly encourages growth and empowerment.

Equestrian therapy is often overlooked as a healing therapeutic tool, and it shouldn't be. SonRise Equestrian is an invaluable service to our community. Their services are top-notch. Children everywhere (home-bound, hospital-bound, and at camp) benefit tremendously from the horses and professional staff. Their impact doesn't end there but ripples through the entire family.

This is a wonderful program for at-risk teens called "Helping Hands," which teaches youth about handiwork on a ranch, as well as horse care. The volunteers are caring and teach youth helpful skills as they develop their work ethic. As my son says: "Everyone is happy to be there, it's relaxing, and it's the type of place where you can't imagine anything bad happening." The degree of care and personal interest displayed by the youth mentors is absolutely exceptional. Highly recommended!

SonRise provides a much needed service to the community. Children with a variety of needs can find new confidence, friendships and beneficial physical activities while working with and riding the horses. The Traveling Tails program is a wonderful way to take horses to hospitals and camps so that more children can experience the special gifts a horse can offer.
This Foundation is well run, and, in my opinion, uses their funding wisely. I happily volunteer my time, and give financially toward their programs.

The SonRise staff, young people, horses, and volunteers are simply the best of the best! Working with the Helping Hands group, sidewalking on Traveling Tails trips, and spending time with the minis and ponies have all been experiences that have enriched my life tremendously. Alana and Lauren Koski have modeled loving support and compassion in all they do, and I'm so grateful to know and work with them. SonRise has positively impacted many lives, including mine!

Great Organization
Great leader ship
Dedication

Seeing the work they do is almost like watching a miracle

SonRise Equestrian Foundation serves kids with special needs. But they aren’t the only ones they serve... SonRise serves the families and caregivers by providing a safe and knowledgeable staff to whom they can entrust their child for an hour or two. During that time they know their loved one is being loved on and cared for and they can sit down and collect themselves in a beautiful setting. They can step back from being hands on and rest. They see their kids do things and accomplish activities they don’t do anywhere else.

Amazing staff and volunteers working with loving equines of all sizes. Miracles happen every day here.

A great organization that has helped so many children.

SonRise is such a fantastic nonprofit! They have so many different programs that benefit people with particular needs, and don’t even wait for the people they can help to come to them. I’m so blessed to be connected with such a great group!

Sonrise Equestrian Foundation is an amazing program for special needs children. I have sponsored their Wine and Equine event for 5 years now, if you have not gone to this wonderful fundraiser I highly recommend it.

I have been volunteering for Sonrise for over 10 years. I have gained so much and have been blessed by all the support of the program over the years. From all the experience I have been able to help guide others to volunteering and each one of them has been so fulfilled.

I've been with sonrise for 2 years they've helped me in so many ways the horses and staff are amazing they've given me the best two years and i'm so looking forward to many more.

SonRise is a brilliant program for kids with special needs. Not only does it help the kids, but it helps me go through my struggles in life. When I'm here all of my worries go away. The horses are the smartest creatures I know. The staff are amazing at taking care of the horses, and each other. Everyone (including horses) are so comforting. Thank you for letting me be free, and for being myself.

Even though I have only been with sonRise for a few months i love coming here every week to help volunteer. Having this group is like having a second family, the people i work with are very nice and kind people.

I think i have been at Sonrise for 2 years now and i am so happy i got to join Sonrise is an amazing program and helps kids and teens out a lot with many problems and its helps me a lot through going back to school first time in middle school coming from homeschool

SonRise is an amazing program. Working here as a volunteer you meet so many new and amazing people. This program is not only life changing for the kids in it but also the volunteers. The people I volunteer with are like a second family. It allows you to open up and not worry about being judged. Overall this program is amazing. I would highly recommend this program for anyone that is looking for extra volunteer hours.

I volunteer at sonrise helping hands and it's been a great bonding experience for me and my sister. I've become really close with everyone and it's overall made me a better person and better at my teamwork skills.

I have been involved with a number of non-profit organizations but non with as much bang for the buck as SonRise. And their services are free for kids in the program. It is funded by community donations! Best of all, it is remarkable to see the positive impact horses can have on kids with special needs.

SonRise Equestrian Foundation was a must during my daughter's recovery while she had Leukemia. The therapy she received with horses gave her an outlet from her day to day struggles. The staff is incredible hands on friendly. They gave her hope and something to look forward to. These times during treatment were very difficult. I do not think we could have gone through them without the help of SonRise. This is a wonderful program. Our daughter is now 10 years old. A 4 year cancer survivor. She remembers every horse she rode and the staff. Thank you for beautiful memories and for helping us get through our hard times.

Last summer my daughter, who was born with special needs due to a lack of oxygen at birth, and I volunteered at SonRise Equestrian Foundation. My daughter is living proof of how equine therapy can change the life of special children. I was a bit worried that my daughter would not be accepted to volunteer at SonRise. But after completing SideWalking certification with SonRise and being interviewed, she was accepted. The programs Director said to me that volunteering for many is also "therapy". That they would find roles for my daughter where she would feel useful, be safe, and insure the safety of all.

I decided to also volunteer. I watched a young boy who had not been verbal all of the sudden say "walk on" as he had been instructed during classes for three days but never had spoken. I watched this child and others over our weeks volunteering and knew that lives had been changed forever! Just like that of my daughter's. I have photos I'd love to attach, but SonRise are very strict in requesting all volunteers to keep private our photos as some families are sensitive to photos being posted. If photos will be of help, I will certainly seek permission. SonRise far exceeds any other place I have been offering equine therapy with safety and it goes without saying love and kindness for all that volunteer and attend clases there.

It was suggested that I get involved in community 9 years ago and I thought I don't have time. What I learned from volunteering is that everyone has time to make a difference in someone else's life. When you do so your life changes in a way you will never have expected. This is my experience and with out Sonrise and their mission and service to the community I would not be the person I am today. Sonrise has given me the tools to move on to help other non profits but Sonrise will always be my favorite and most inspiring.

My son took free horse back riding lessons for two years with Son Rise. It has been a great experience for him. He is always very excited to go to Son Rise. It really makes a difference in his life. The volunteers are so nice and patient with the kids. Thanks for the wonder work with our special need children.

I have been a volunteer at SonRise for about two years. I really do not do much other than welcome the parents and their children to one of the programs run by the foundation. However, I have found that I get a great deal of enjoyment watching the kids and how much fun they are having working with the horses. I also appreciate how much the parents of the children welcome a brief time to watch their child enjoying themselves. I can only imagine that SonRise offers these children and their parents this type of pride and joy in their challenging lives. I must also say the skilled staff and other volunteers I work with help me feel like I am making a valuable contribution.

This is an amazing nonprofit that uses horses to help children in need. They have a therapeutic riding program that is free for children with disabilities. They also have a traveling tails program that takes miniature horses and ponies to schools, children's hospitals, and children's hospice centers. The connection children make with horses is amazing.

SonRise equestrian foundation is an awesome place for children and volunteers alike. Every time I volunteer there, I see miracles happen. This place deserves 5 stars!!!

Love this foundation. The work they do with the kids is amazing.

I love Amigo and Treasure and Sarah.
I do my five special steps and wear my boots
I love riding my horse.
Thank you so much.
Leah - age 7

I love working with all of the committed volunteers and participating children and teens at Sonrise Equestrian. As a retired teacher I had dreamt of getting back to my love for horses and continuing my work with children. Everyone I have worked with has been selflessly immersed in helping these young people through their connection with horses, helping them to persevere in the face of whatever challenge they might be up against. Through this innovative use of the child's attraction to the horses they naturally developing a can-do attitude and new confidence in themselves.

I volunteer at SonRise and I love everything about it. I feel blessed that I get to help out with such an amazing cause and work with such amazing people. Everyone in SonRise is so kind, caring, and loving.

They have help my son so much it is amazing how riding horse help my child that is autistic and add just come out of his she'll better and be able to so such compassion to animals where he use to be a bit mean to them.

My son has been riding with Sonrise for a year now. This is a wonderful opportunity, where riders learn not only horseback riding but also how to care for and prepare a horse for a ride. Sonrise volunteers and the staff are gentle and kind, but have high standards that are appropriate to each child's level of function. Amazingly, Sonrise makes this opportunity available to children with special needs at no cost to the family. This level of generosity, and understanding of the financial demands that are placed on a family that includes a child with special needs, is very unusual. Thank you, Sonrise!

I love horses and I love helping people, so as a volunteer at SonRise I have been able to have the best of both worlds. SonRise does an amazing job helping people with physical disabilities, as well as other needs. They provide their services to anyone & the horses truly help the people in need, as well as help the volunteers.

Outstanding staff and volunteers loving on kids that have challenges. A place where children can flourish while interacting with well-kept gentle horses and skilled helpers. Highly recommend!

Sonrise is a place where I was looking to spend some quality time with my daughter while demonstrating to her the importance of helping others. We love being there with the kids while interacting with the horses in this therapeutic environment. Even though we are there to help the children, I feel a sense of healing and therapy while being there. The sheer joy that is on the faces of the children while riding a horse that magically adapts to the child's abilities is remarkable. Sonrise is a wonderful foundation.

Sonrise Equestrian Therapy has really helped our almost non-verbal kid. Now, he loves Horses can call the Horses names and the command. Its like having Physical , Occupational and Speech Therapy in one place. Thanks to all the Teachers and the Volunteers for doing such an awesome Job.

I have had nothing but good experiences with the people of SonRise. They are very supportive of all the volunteers and the volunteers and staff are get with their clients. SonRise provides a ray of sunshine and hope to the children and their families. I got involved and knew nothing of horses or equine therapy. However in a very short time I could see the incredible value this organization provides those in need in the community. Believe me, these women do an incredible job!

Sonrise has helped our daughter in so many ways:
Her speech- she has to call out commands to the horses
Her motor skills- She has to have proper form and know how and when to work the reins. Also, latching and unlatching the horse.
Her ADHD- She has to pay attention & focus in the moment when on and around the horses.
Her Anxiety- She has to remain calm when she's around the horses.
Her Social Skills- She interacts with the volunteers & other kids. They have to work together.

I have been a happy volunteer with SonRise since its inception 10 years ago. It is a very special program making huge differences in the lives of children with all kinds of special needs, both physical and psychological. The results are immeasurable and the pleasure as a volunteer to see this difference is priceless. The best part there is no charge for any of the programs with SonRise-children ride the horses and receive consistent mentorship for free, and other community programs benefit from SonRise as no additional cost. Almost all of the staff at SonRise are dedicated volunteers and the program is run with tremendous financial accountability.

Sonrise Equestrian Therapy has helped my Twelve year old Autistic son feel awesome. Sonrise offers free riding lessons to my son. He loves the connection he has with the horses there. The volunteers treat everyone like family and are so caring. I never met such loving people like those at Sonrise.

I am a volunteer Horse Handler and Travelling Tails volunteer..I love everything about Sonrise, the ranch, the people who work there, the horses are amazing and the kids are so sweet.

Sonrise is an exceptional non-profit organization. They do so much for developmentally disabled kids. It's incredible to see the children approach a horse with such trepidation, then to see them grinning ear to ear and laughing when they start riding. I've read a letter of gratitude from an autistic young man's parents who said the boy started speaking (to humans) for the first time after joining the program. And, all kids seem to come out of their shells around the horses. I feel privileged to have witnessed a tiny baby in a hospice program reacting to a mini horse's presence. It's magical!

SonRise is a very special organization that changes lives for the better. I have observed it from the outside looking in and also experiencing it from the inside looking out as a volunteer, team leader and former Board Member. The Executive Director has been steadfast with her commitment to making SonRise the best possible with programming and safety for the kids in last 10 years. The staff, volunteers and board members are top drawer. The kids and their families are the benefactors of this great organization.

I could see that riding at Sonrise gave my autistic son such a feeling of pride and
competence. The volunteers are patient, kind and encouraging. They are so
experienced, and calm and clear in their directions, that they achieved amazing
cooperation from my son....who can have really difficulties with maintaining attention.
I'm deeply grateful for their work

Love the people, the organization and the way healing is done with horses.

Sonrise provides an incredible place for volunteers to interact with their organization, horses, and children with development or physical disabilities. They make it so easy to volunteer your time, their training is great, and they provide ample opportunities that best fit your schedule, needs, skills, and passion. An incredible nonprofit with a very generous staff who cares about their volunteers, their horses, and most importantly the kids they work to serve!

SonRise is an amazing organization!! My daughter is very lucky to be a part of their program! The volunteers and the horses bring such joy to the kids! This organization is a blessing to many and I am thankful and grateful for all that they do. I love SonRise!

SonRise is a wonderful organization that my daughter has been lucky to be a part of for over 4 years. She's gained so much through this program and it's volunteers. I don't know where she'd be without it. Everyone is so generous and caring.

As a volunteer for several years, I have seen wonder in the eyes of ill children, smiles on the faces of those who have known sadness and pain and the thrill of accomplishment. Son rise has put happiness in the hearts of children and profound joy in the lives of their parents. Sonrise volunteers (and their well-trained horses) strive to add a little sunshine into the lives of those less fortunate - it truly is a wonderful, caring non-profit organization. Sylvia Coburn

Having recently retired, I was in search of a volunteer experience that would not drain me of all my time and energy. I was also highly selective in choosing a non-profit that served both the target population and the community in a kind, humane and obviously beneficial way. SonRise has lived up to my needs, standards and expectations. The blending of children with special needs and horses trained by people who deeply care about forming and sustaining relationships is magical.

My first experience with the "Traveling Tails" program sealed my resolve to maximize my volunteer opportunities with SonRise. As a neurological physical therapist, I bring unique skills and contributions to the children I encounter. My lessons in natural horsemanship are serving to facilitate my developing relationships with the SonRise horses. I am confident that I am in one of the best and most creative nonprofit organizations around serving children with special needs.

For the past 6 plus years, our family has been on both the giving and receiving end of this extraordinarily uplifting program. Using horses to work with these precious children provides much needed hope and radiates an amazing amount of joy. Everyone gets blessed. It’s genuine, powerful, and healing.

Our 15 year old intellectually disabled son, Matthew, rides horses at Sonrise on Saturdays. Because of this training, he has been able to horseback ride with our family on trips to Half Moon Bay and Costa Rica. He has no fear and is proud to show off his riding abilities. Thanks to all of the Sonrise staff and volunteers!

I had the opportunity to serve with SonRise Equestrian Foundation for 1 month. During that time, I saw how big of an impact this organization has on their community. Every volunteer I met was a selfless and kind individual, who gave of their time and energy to help those who truly need it. I had the opportunity to be a sidewalker during their riding lessons, and get to know the children and see how the connection with the horses and volunteers has changed their lives, as well as hearing the parent's stories of where their child has come from. I was one of the volunteers for their program with for children with social and emotional difficulties, and over my time there I was able to develop a relationship with several of those children, in an atmosphere that was fun for them and safe, free from bullying and the chaos of life. I also participated in Travelling Tails, during which they bring their pony and miniature horses to locations to meet children, including a camp for children with chronic and terminal illnesses, and George Mark's Children's home, a hospice and respite care center.
In between programs, the volunteers continue to give of their time and energy, whether it's cleaning the stables or the grounds, making sure the horses are taking care of, doing office work, or mailing newsletters to keep the public updated on what is happening. I truly believe this is one of the most valuable organizations that exists, and I was proud to serve with them.

My twin girls are benefiting greatly from the Sonrise program. Both girls struggle with many issues relating back to trauma from their pre-adoption situation. Sonrise has given them a place where they feel they belong and they absolutely love their time with the horses. The volunteers are good role models and pour into my girls a sense of accomplishment as they do the various chores and learn about grooming and riding. Sonrise is truly a gift to our family as my girls can be themselves and do something that they love. I can see their self confidence increase as they are more and more comfortable with being with these wonderful animals. Thank you so much Sonrise!

I have had the privilege to be associated with SonRise Equestrian Foundation for many years, originally as a friend of a participant's parents , then an occasional volunteer and now as a donor and Board Member. The work the SonRise staff and volunteers do with very limited resources is truly exceptional, not to mention the incredibly positive impact they are making in children's lives.

I commend the entire SonRise team for the hard work, dedication and committed service to children and their families that SonRise serves.

My daughter has struggled with many issues, including dyslexia, a mood disorder, depression, a major family loss, social issues, and more. On her first day at Sonrise she met other kids with the same issues and finally felt that she could be around people who understood what she goes through. A 10 year old doesn't understand their diagnosis, they just feel terrible and misunderstood. The only time she felt happy was around animals, so Sonrise has given her not only the chance to care for animals, but to also be with peers who understand her, while the staff offer so much more. She often comes home with small awards, that boost her self confidence, for example, she was given a horse puzzle because she was the hardest worker that day.

My daughter has type 1 diabetes and was accepted into the Team Equine program at Sonrise. It has helped her gain confidence and she has made new friends. She loves the time she spends there and the staff that volunteer are WONDERFUL positive role models.

it was fun working with the horses and learning how to ride and take care of the animals@ sonrise.

The very first day I volunteered with SonRise Equestrian Foundation, I knew I was a part of something incredibly special! I have never worked with both horses and challenged children before. My first session I worked with a girl with autism and watching her interact and connect with the SonRise horse, Teddy, was an unforgettable experience. This young girl, who showed no emotion upon her arrival, was smiling and laughing while riding Teddy. She responded to verbal commands from the volunteers, and truly connected with her horse. I have seen this connection over and over between the SonRise kids and the horses, and every time its wonderful to experience. SonRise is a truly blessed foundation, with amazing volunteers working so hard to help make a positive difference in these kids' lives. I only wish we were able to help more kids!

I was introduced to SonRise through a dedicated volunteer a couple of years ago, but this spring I decided to volunteer my time helping with a rescue horse. I began going out to groom and hand walk Molly a few months ago. My experience at SonRise has been wonderful. I feel that the organization has its mission and purpose clearly in mind in everything they do and decision they make. They keep safety a priority, as well so as a volunteer I have learned how to be more effective without being nervous I will do something wrong. I am not a big "joiner", because many times I have found that petty motives can take over in group dynamics, but this is not what I have found at SonRise. I have learned so much about horsemanship from the other volunteers and the Executive Director, Alana and how to give my time and energy to an animal that needs someone. The Executive Director and volunteers are warm, straight forward, and welcoming! When I volunteer at SonRise I feel appreciated and needed and that I can make a difference . I feel as though I am in therapy when I volunteer there! I have become healthier, happier and enjoy knowing that I am learning more every time I volunteer!

We work with disadvantaged youth who may also have physical and mental handicaps. Our therapy is through the use of horses some that may have come from similiar backgrounds as the children.We teach them horsemanship and with this comes more self confidence .It's a wonderful enviroment and i am a better person because of SonRise Equestrian Foundation.

This organization not only helps children who are suffering from disabilities, but gives them strength, hope, and a sense of belonging. Everyone is treated equally and with unconditional love. It is amazing seeing the joy on a child's face light up when riding a horse, or even brushing a horse. This volunteers here are diligent, committed, and full of love for SonRise. The experience here at SonRise is like no other. :)

The staff members and horses at Sonrise have positively influenced my children's lives. As twins, they struggled with competition between each other. They now provide encouragement to each other when riding. Their self confidence has grown and anxiety has decreased. They look forward to all activities at Sonrise. I am so appreciative of what Sonrise has done for my family.

I served as a Summer intern for SonRise spending 40+ hours a week. What an amazing experience.

The volunteers are some of the best I have ever met, always positive, always ready to learn, and always giving their all for SonRise, the horses, and most importantly the children. They are always working hard to make SonRise the BEST it can be day in and day out.

The clients served are of the greatest variety of any of the places I have had the opportunity to learn from. Yet the horses are prepared for anything that comes at them, whether the day involves just grooming, games, or actual riding lessons. These horses are some of the most well-trained horses I have seen working at a therapeutic riding facility.

The mentors are incredible. I had the opportunity to observe each of them and the connections they were able to make with the students as well as the horses. I was always impressed with their ability to assess and adapt games and lessons to each students abilities, encouraging them to grow and try new things, stretching their current limitations.

I would recommend SonRise to any one looking for a wonderful group of people to welcome them, horses with the biggest hearts I have ever seen, and the chance to learn and grow around horses.