The Magic of Horses
Our story starts with the idea of bringing the magic of interacting with horses to youth and families living in Vancouver's eastside. The healing and empowering benefits of humans working with horses is increasingly understood. We can bring horses into our urban spaces, for those who could otherwise not have access!
“It is an excellent program. The tone and demeanor of the facilitators is great. The content of social / emotional learning is very high. The program is a great benefit, it allows all of the kids to flourish. ”
Our pilot program was born when Burnaby Neighbourhood House asked us to provide horse programs for the youth they work with. Burnaby Horsemen's Association generously gave us space for an Equine Assisted Learning program focussed on Burnaby youth.
We are first and only in Metro Vancouver to partner with Cartier Farms and provide their award-winning Equine Assisted Learning program here.
Pilot Program Highlights
Our six month pilot in 2017/2018 was a great success. We provided 46 sessions of equine assisted learning programs at Burnaby Equestrian Centre. The curriculum, the horses and the experiences with youth exceeded all our expectations.
Forty youth participated in our weekly Learning With Horses pilot program at the Burnaby Equestrian Centre. Up to ten youth participated each time, and most youth attended seven or more times. All youth participated free of cost.
Nearly all youth, and all partners, agreed the youth were learning skills that are useful elsewhere. Many positive changes in skills and behaviour were noted. Community partners are committed to continue, and other organizations are eager to join when space becomes available.
We now have an ongoing contract with the Province of BC, and grants and user fees from several sources. We are training additional facilitators, and are ready to continue this much-needed program.
Community Support is Strong
The generous support of our partners, donors and the horse community confirms that this innovative program is needed. We are beginning to fill a significant gap in needed social services for urban youth. There is tremendous interest and potential.
