My mom starting volunteering at SDYR and couldn't stop talking about ranch. Not just the animals but the people too. At first I just listened and agreed with her that "this amazing place exists." But I didn't share her passion and exuberance for a place I had never been. It wasn't until the summer of 2018, my inaugural visit to the ranch, where I recognized that passion for myself. I met a few of the horses at first and immediately were drawn to them. At initial glance their large appearance might seem intimidating but when you look into their eyes you see gentleness. I was greeted with a kiss and a nod! I was in love! My mom was so proud of her altruism. We continued to tour the ranch and that's when I met Penelope and the donkeys. Have you ever been loved by a Labrador retriever? That's the feeling when you meet the donkeys. They aren't afraid to love others and in return my heart burst with joy! The donkeys wanted to be so close to me they would have sat on my lap if I let them! And Penelope. The one eared sheep. She melted my heart and continues to do so. I didn't know her story (though I do now) and it will simply bring tears to your eyes. She is kind and gentle. I could have roamed in the pasture all day long with the animals, admiring the serene beauty of the ranch.
Did I mention the Youth part of the ranch? It's a faith-based program for youth that may be labeled disadvantaged or disabled. They support and encourage these youth to develop positive relationships and decision making skills. They do so much more than my words will ever convey. They touch the lives of the vulnerable and show them they were made perfect in God's eyes.
Being in the presence of these animals is healing to the soul, mind and heart. I could go on. The benefits of the ranch are limitless. The selflessness of the owners and volunteers is intoxicating. In life, it's humans that traditionally teach animals manners and commands with their words. But I think it's the animals who teach humans love, respect and tolerance.
Stable Days is simply a magical place. Between horses, bunnies, sheep & donkeys, oh my! There is something for everyone. You won't regret hugging a horse!
Stable Days Youth Ranch is one of those unique places that has a lasting positive impact on the horses and other animals, the kids and parents who are involved in the mentor program and the mentors and volunteers...frankly all who come out here to experience the ranch. I never could have predicted the blessings my daughter and I have received. We have volunteered at SDYR for the past 4+ years and will continue to for years to come. It is truly our "Happy Place".
My daughter had a few sessions this fall with her favorite horse, Roxie. She absolutely loved it and the volunteers that work there are passionate, kind and truly care about the cause. Thank you stable days!
It’s hard to describe this amazing place in just a few words, but I am going to try. It is Owned by the most wonderful couple, who dedicate their hearts and souls to the people and animals that reside there and/or visit. They rescue horses and pair them in “sessions” with trained mentors and children of all ability levels to create experiences those children will never forget! You cannot understand until you see a young child with autism, barely able to complete a sentence, sitting on a horse, smiling A huge smile and firing off rapid responses and carrying on whole conversations. Or a young boy with Down syndrome working with a gentle and kind horse, smiling from ear to ear while creating memories of a lifetime. They are absolutely wonderful people with an even more wonderful purpose.