Who qualifies to ride?
At risk youth or children with special needs.
Who have we served?
We have served children from the successful Save the Family transitional housing program in Mesa for four years, Maricopa County Head Start children for five years, DDD foster care for three years, the Dream Catchers transitional housing children out of Casa Grande for five years, as well as individuals with special needs through the seven years.
Fees and what is included:
For $210 each child gets a six-week riding session on Saturdays. (Children can be signed up for additional six-week sessions depending on needs). There are some sponsorships available if under 200% of Federal poverty income level. The children are at Angel Acres for 1 1/2 hours each Saturday. This time includes horse grooming, a 1/2 hour ride with education and fun with the use of letters, numbers, colors and games. When not riding, they do a little artwork and brushing time with our four goats, which they love. Their artwork is put into a booklet along with pictures taken of them riding horses. This booklet is given to them as a gift for positive memories. Also, a picnic lunch is provided weekly where all the children share their fun experiences. Each child has three volunteers with them during their rides for maximum safety. The children receive lots of positive feedback. The rides help children with balance, strengthening muscles, coordination, focus, listening skills, self-esteem building and more.
