The Ranch
Building our own Ranch, a project of the Foundation that is in the start up stages, will provide a healthy environment and therapeutic programming for teens and young adults who have experienced, or are at risk of experiencing, systems use, were or are unhoused, have fled domestic violence, or are youth of Veterans or First Responders.
The Welcome Center
Every client’s experience begins when they drive into the ranch. To create a safe space, it starts with identifiable parking and a welcome space for them to check in. This first point of connection will provide safety for not only the clients arriving, it will allow those already in the ranch to feel contained and have confidentiality. While waiting, clients and caregivers can peruse books, find resources or information, enjoy a refreshment, and even see what foods we have available that have been grown on the ranch.
The Barn and Horses
An important function of the Ranch is to provide therapy horses that work with the teens and young adults. Bonding with a horse, regardless of one's age or circumstance, can make quite a substantial impact. Being able to work with a horse requires self-confidence, and in turn, builds self-esteem. This will carry over into everyday life, giving young people confidence in their education and in most any opportunity in which they engage. A well thought out barn will ensure safety for not only the client’s, it will ensure our horse partners are care for as they deserve. Having a covered space for programming will allow for more ongoing services through out the seasons, protecting clients from intense heat and the rains.
The Enrichment Building
There are many ways to connect with nature and animals, including utilizing expressive arts, energy work, and other somatic activities. This is a small building in addition to the covered barn that can provide space for energy and art to flow into the outdoors. We can host sound healing events, yoga retreats, art classes, sewing events, and so much more in a space that provides shelter, yet opens into nature.
Additional Amenities
A Sensory Garden
A Gather space for caregivers, families, or meetings to be held
A Small animal area for other family members, caregivers, or people to regulate, learn about
animals, or have groups.
Walking paths
Riding trails
Sustainable farming
Therapeutic Programming
Staff will work with each client to develop personal plans to reach their short- and long-term goals. Programming will vary and be nimble to address each individual’s needs. Opportunities will be vast with offerings of Equine Assisted Therapies, Equine Assisted Learning, Therapeutic Riding, Nature and Sensory Walks, Expressive Arts, Energy Work, Somatic Work, Horticulture therapies, Sensory Gardens, and more.
The overarching goal of this project is to create an atmosphere in which at-risk teens and young adults can thrive, learn, build confidence and forge their own healthy path with the support and guidance of Rusty Halo’s qualified staff.