The children coming to Spirit of Hope work with and learn about horses, just like any other child participating in an extracurricular activity. Participants may come for just one session or they may come as many times as their schedule will allow. Since horseback riding does not have a registration deadline or set season like many other activities, sessions can begin at any time and accommodate the guardian’s schedule.

Each session is individually tailored to the participant’s experience, needs, and expectations. Participants are always in direct supervision when working with the horses. By working with horses that have similar backgrounds to their own, children are able to heal emotionally from the scars of their past.

Numerous studies of equine assisted programs such as ours have proven that participating children significantly improve in their self-esteem, empathy, tolerance for stress, problem-solving skills, impulse control, and interpersonal relationships. When working with the horses, children at the ranch are encouraged to draw conclusions and metaphors about how these experiences relate to their own lives.

In addition to just being fun, these skills encourage the development of confidence, empowerment, compassion, independence, and mutual healing as they work to restore a rescued horse to full health. We provide a place for mutual healing in addition to giving children the opportunity to just have fun outdoors enjoying God’s creation.