Special Spirit is such a beautiful and peaceful sanctuary within very close proximity to the hustle and bustle of LA. I've been volunteering there for years and it is so wonderful to see the smiles on riders and visitors when they interact with the animals. I also love the model here--where participants can grow their skills and confidence and later become mentors and volunteers--it really is a place where everyone's unique gifts and talents are highlighted by the horses and then celebrated by the team. In my professional work with foster youth, I have referred several clients to participate in Special Spirit's programs. For kids who have experienced trauma--the animals can help them to work through things that can be too painful to discuss in talk-therapy. It was very powerful to see how being at the barn created meaningful and positive shifts. There is something for everyone at Special Spirit where the animals and people are so generous and caring!
Heart. It's the core of this place. The love given to all the recused horses and the fam animals. The care given children and adults with psychical or developmental disabilities who come and can experience the healing effect horses have on humans. Horses, because of their sharp instincts as prey animals, respond honestly to the energy and non-verbal communication they receive which makes them wonderful therapy partners/animals. Special Spirit has been connecting the healing power of horses with those in need for over 20 years. As a volunteer I get to both watch this special connection in action and, because you get more out of volunteering than you put in, experience the calming effect of the equine partners. I can't think of a better place to donate my time. It has the heart. It is a place to heal. In the world we live in, places like this are even more important than ever.
My sister, Jennifer Mistrano, worked at Special Spirit up until her death from breast cancer in 2014. She asked me to ride with her on one of her hippotherapy sessions, even though I have a great fear of horses. It was one of the most meaningful moments of my life. She taught me courage, and I always think of Eva Lund and how supportive she was of Jenny at her time of need.
Special Spirit is truly a special place. My teenage daughter is on the autism spectrum. When she began taking riding lessons at Special Spirit, she had never been on a horse before. During the 2 years that she rode there, not only did she improve her riding skills, but we also saw a dramatic improvement in her self-esteem and confidence. Even when she did something inappropriate or made a mistake, the instructors' warm, supportive approach to correcting the behavior taught her important life lessons without demeaning her. As a result, rather than trying to escape the situation, out daughter was inspired to work harder to do it correctly the next time.
Over the years we were there, we worked with several different instructors and each one was equally impressive, not only for their riding skills, but also for their calm, supportive approach to working with kids on the spectrum.
Last Summer, I luckily found 'Special Spirit' through a hippo-therapy 'Google' search and ever since, my son (diagnosed with CP) has been taking lessons. I was thoroughly explained the benefits of hippo-therapy but I've also found hippo-therapy to incorporate a little of OT, PT and speech. Cassie, our instructor always makes therapy so much fun. My son is always excited for his lessons and not only has he developed a new sense of pride and confidence, but his core strength has increased. Ava and her entire staff are always warm, endearing, communicative and lesson's are affordable. The ranch is always well-maintained and we look forward to our weekly sessions. I'm so happy with our commitment to Special Spirit and I look forward to my son's growth with them.
Special Spirit is a wonderful therapeutic riding center. I always feel good when I'm there volunteering. The instructors are great!! They really love the work they are doing and they all work together so well. It's always a positive experience to see the kids interact with the horses and the progress they make each week. The name Special Spirit just about says it all!
Eva Lund and her Special Spirit says it all. Not only is the non-profit Special Spirit a special place for the challenged but Eva herself provides a special place for all who walk on her property. Her giving has made a place where children and adults are taken care of, learn movement, activities, and caring of horses.
Horses provide the bond that animals and humans have, Eva provides the glue to make it all work. Bless her for her giving!
My son with autism has benefited enormously from his experience at Special Spirits. He has participated in horse shows and has gained great confidence from being involved in them. The instructors are amazing with special needs children.
Both my daughters and I have been volunteering at Special Spirit for over two years and I have witnessed countless success stories. Special Spirit is a magical place where children with all abilities are free to experience intense emotions, physical challenges and freedom in a world where they are too often unable or not allowed to.
I started taking riding lessons there about 7 years ago. Now I keep my own horse there. Everyone is friendly and helpful. It's a very nurturing, non-judgmental environment if you are learning to ride or just want to improve on the skills you have.
My friends and family are always impressed by how nice all the people there are.
Wonderful down to earth organization With down to earth people. The horses are well cared for and they do so much for disabled, autistic, and handicaped kids of all ages. Most of the horses are retired competition horses who now can give bad their knowledge and patience to their are challenged riders.
Started and runner by a native swede.