At FaithfulHearts Equine Learning Center, we partner people and horses together to harness the transformative power of horses to heal and inspire. Our mission is to empower individuals of all ages, especially those facing anxiety, trauma, and life challenges, through therapeutic equine services. By fostering trust and connection with our gentle horses, we help participants build confidence, emotional resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose one hoof beat at a time!
At FaithfulHearts, we recognize that life throws us many challenges and situations beyond our control. Support systems and connections during these times are essential for mental wellness. Especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of anxiety and depression among children and adolescents has doubled compared to pre-pandemic levels, with approximately 20%-25% of children and adolescents experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Data from the CDC indicated a 24% – 31% increase in mental health-related emergency department visits for children and adolescents. At FaithfulHearts, we can offer participants hope, relief and solace from the stress and burdens of life by fostering connections between horses and people. 100% of participants in our equine-assisted programs report positive improvements in overall mental wellness.
FHELC desires to expand capacity to grow the reach and impact of our equine-assisted services to support many more children, adults and veterans who are at-risk, suffering from PTSD, depression, anxiety, including the LGBTQ+ community. We currently offer scholarships and sliding scale fees to people with financial needs. With additional funding, we would like to offer 50% more scholarships to these populations to expand access to equine-assisted services. FHELC also wishes to continue the equine-assisted program with our local school district to support children with significant needs. Many children in our community are now lacking support for social emotional healing and growth, due to loss of services at the local school district. This program would serve about 50 additional students a week. We currently serve ~350 people a year, and would like to increase numbers served to over 450.
Participants in equine-assisted activities and therapies may experience a 50% decrease in depression and anxiety symptoms according to published research.
“Your program has accomplished in three months what I have been trying to do for my son for three years, he can now communicate his needs and feelings, and his behavior is improving in school. Your efforts are beyond words of appreciation!” — anonymous mother of an 8 year old therapeutic riding student with TBI.
Phone: (719) 687-0119