"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another. "

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We are privileged to serve kids age 5-18 and their families (foster, adoptive, or biological) who are experiencing or have a history of crises/trauma. Hurting people need hope and the security of healthy relationships that provide safety and trust.  Healing from the inside out can begin within the context of a caring and safe relationship. Pairing kids with a person of faith and a horse with it's own story can help spur the healing process. 

​We strive to offer a place of simplicity and quiet strength amid a very noisy world, giving space for God to His good work which often comes in powerful whispers to the heart. We know Jesus is in the business of healing and restoration, it is beautiful to walk along side and watch Him work through the horses.  

>> ​Session Application Link <<

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Please use the button below to make session contributions, adding the
​participants name in the memo is greatly appreciated if sponsoring a specific youth/teen.
​Thank you for your partnership!

Why horses...
There is an almost endless list of answers to the "why horses", you've likely heard some of them. Here are a just a few we enjoy on a daily basis at the ranch... horses accept us as we are and help us to bring our best self to them. They are completely honest and true. Horses help us grow in character and confidence as well as help us be present and stay focused. Horses provide an alternative sentient being with whom we can achieve a partnership through trust. The list goes on and on... the simple benefits of "barn time"... unplugged, fresh air (well... it is a barn), big space, and sweet relationships. 

While interaction with a horse is therapeutic in and of itself, it is the  consistent , one-on-one time that makes SPURS successful. Teaching these kids & teens how to communicate with their horse through body language, connection and pressure lets them develop a greater capacity for empathy, social and self-awareness. As kids get comfortable in their routine with their mentors and horse, their willingness to apply themselves improves. This success eventually translates to home, school and community settings.

​Here are a few links:

• Children and Horses: Equine Activities Improve Lives
• ​​Time to Horse Around: The Psychological and Developmental Benefits for Youth Involved with Horses​
• Efficacy of Equine Therapy: Mounting Evidence
• The Healing Power of Horses: How Equine Therapy Benefits Veterans, Victims of Abuse & More
• The Surprising Way Horses Benefit Kids' Emotional and Social Skills

Books:

• ​Riding Home
• Joey
• Bridge Called Hope
• Hope Riding

Who...
Kids ages 5-18 and their families (foster, adoptive or biological) who are experiencing or have a history of crises/trauma and other social & emotional challenges that create difficulty in their lives.