About Us

Equine-assisted learning (EAL) is an experiential approach that utilizes interactions with horses to facilitate personal development and emotional growth. In EAL, participants engage in activities such as grooming, leading, and handling horses, which promotes self-awareness, communication, and relationship-building skills. The non-judgmental nature of horses helps individuals explore their emotions, build confidence, and develop coping mechanisms in a safe environment. Benefits of EAL include reduced anxiety and stress levels, enhanced emotional regulation, improved social skills, and increased resilience. This unique form of experiential learning fosters a deeper understanding of oneself and helps participants translate skills learned with horses into everyday life, ultimately promoting mental well-being and personal empowerment.

Our mission is to empower first responders by harnessing the unique bond between horses and humans. Through transformative experiences that foster healing, resilience, and personal growth, we provide a safe and supportive environment where these dedicated professionals can reconnect with themselves, develop essential coping skills, and strengthen their emotional well-being. We aim to enhance the lives of those who serve our communities, promoting mental health awareness and building a supportive network that champions their invaluable contributions.

Our Vision is to empower individuals to achieve personal and emotional growth through equine-assisted services, promoting healing, resilience, and self-discovery in a compassionate and nurturing environment. We strive to enhance the quality of life for our clients by harnessing the unique bond between humans and horses as a catalyst for positive change.

In reflecting on my journey, I would like to emphasize the shared experiences within my family, which proudly includes my husband, a dedicated retired firefighter, and my lifelong connection with horses spanning almost 50 years.

My husband Tom and I have enjoyed a loving partnership for 40 years, having begun our journey together as teenagers. Tom dedicated over 35 years to serving as a firefighter, a role that exemplifies his commitment to helping others in times of need.

Together, we have raised two wonderful children. Our daughter Cacie, now 31, has embraced her calling in the medical field as an Emergency Room Nurse for over a decade; recently taking on the critical role of charge nurse in the Emergency Department. She is a devoted wife to a first responder and a loving mother to three beautiful children. Our son Tommy has followed in our family tradition of service, having served as an EMT and firefighter for over seven years. The passion for caring and service for others runs deep in our family, although my path has led me to work primarily with animals.

My affinity for animals, particularly horses, has provided me with essential skills that I now recognize as invaluable. One of the most significant gifts I’ve gained is the ability to listen—truly listen—to my husband, daughter, and son as they share stories about their challenging calls and experiences. In their moment of reflection and processing, I am able to offer a safe space free from judgment, allowing them to express their emotions surrounding the tragedies they confront, sometimes on a daily basis. I have come to understand that, while the events are traumatic for the patients and their families, they profoundly affect our first responders as well. They, too, require a compassionate ear, whether it be from family, professional support, or even a gentle horse, to process and heal.

My lifelong passion for working with horses has profoundly influenced my inner peace and sense of calm, especially through my experiences with Natural Lifemanship. Throughout this journey, I’ve seen how working with horses has not only nurtured my own spirit but also helped Tom cultivate a more tranquil disposition. As a first responder, Tom naturally carries a strong, focused energy—essential in his line of work—but with the horses, he has learned to soften and adjust his presence. This shift has fostered a mutual respect and understanding between him and the horses, creating the peaceful environment necessary for meaningful connections. Because horses are so sensitive to our internal energy, we are continually learning to be more aware, to adjust as needed, and to build cooperation that enriches both our lives.

Why Horses

Horses, especially thoroughbreds, hold a special place in my heart because of the inspiring parallels I see between their journeys and those of our first responders. Both navigate dynamic and challenging careers; thoroughbreds enter the racing industry at just two years old. They undergo rigorous training, racing at exhilarating speeds while carrying jockeys, which showcases their remarkable athleticism and dedication to competition. While these majestic animals thrive on the thrill of running, the expectations placed upon them can sometimes overshadow their ability to fully enjoy the experience. Nonetheless, this drive often leads to growth and success in various equestrian disciplines, such as show jumping, fox hunting, or dressage, where they can continue to shine.

For thoroughbreds who cannot pursue a second career due to injury or unforeseen circumstances, a new purpose emerges as they become teachers and partners, including partnering with first responders and their families by way of equine-assisted learning through the principles of Natural Lifemanship. This transition highlights the incredible adaptability of these horses.

The resilience demonstrated by thoroughbreds echoes the commitment of our first responders, who rise to the occasion amid adversity. Their unwavering dedication and compassion shine through even when outcomes may not align with their hopes of saving lives. Just as thoroughbreds learn to navigate challenges, first responders exhibit remarkable strength and perseverance in their service to the community.

Having spent almost 50 years working with horses, I deeply appreciate the profound connections between these magnificent animals and the dedicated individuals who support our communities. Together, they embody the power of resilience and the ability to find purpose, even in the face of adversity, fostering a spirit of hope and collaboration.

In conclusion, our facility’s commitment to Natural Lifemanship creates a transformative experience that not only strengthens the bond between horses and humans but also nurtures the emotional well-being of both, fostering a harmonious partnership built on trust, respect, and understanding.

In essence, our journey is one of shared experiences, compassion, and the profound connections we cultivate, whether with family or through the gentle souls of the horses in our lives.