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- EIN 82-3769330
- connect@thewildhopeaustin.org
- PO Box 200201 Austin TX 78720 USA
- www.thewildhopeaustin.org
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Nonprofit Overview
Causes: Animal-Related, Animals, Counseling, Mental Health, Mental Health Treatment, Sexual Assault Services
Mission: We see how deeply survivors of complex trauma are suffering, often alone and unseen. The Wild Hope is an emerging community equine therapy center committed to providing access to a safe space to heal and foster belonging. Because we ALL deserve to lead a rich life of connection and meaning!
Results: Our Pilot Program came out of a desire to be able to serve survivors as soon as possible. Because we have such a great BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal!) of a vision for our ranch and programs it will take us some time and significant funding to pull it all together. Instead of asking survivors to wait on us, we decided to launch a Pilot Program that would accomplish three main goals: Give survivors access to TF-EAP services at no cost to them as soon as possible. Gather anonymous data on the efficacy of EAP to share with future funding sources and donors. Test best practices for the program so we can make adjustments necessary before continuing to offer EAP services. We launched our Phase 1 Pilot Program amid the pandemic and completed it in March of 2023. Survivors of sex trafficking were given 42 hours of Trauma-Focused, Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy at no cost to them. A total of seven survivors participated in the Program, two of whom came through a collaboration with our friends at Magdalene House Austin. Participants worked alongside a licensed therapist and an equine professional and had several horses (including Jewel) to choose from to partner with. We rented space at a private barn that included access to paddocks, an arena, and all equipment and supplies that were required. There were restrooms onsite as well as covered seating areas for shelter from the weather. Participants ranged in age from 11 to 58 years old. Volunteer drivers and gas gift cards offset transportation costs to and from the barn. Upon completion of the program, we were able to extend an additional 15 hours (57 total hours) to one participant for continued care. She is still receiving services today.