Together, we strive to provide a safe & fun environment for children, horses and families to experience restored hope, healing, encouragement & acceptance within a faith centered environment. Through a variety of activities within each session- there is one main purpose, Mentor the Child.
Youth Program Details
Once a youth between the ages of 7-17 have been accepted to the program- they are scheduled for one of the six week sessions, which are held in the spring, summer or early fall. The sessions are held once a week for 90 minutes.
Our hope is that each child will experience hope and healing through mentorship and bonding with rescued horses. By going through this six week program, we have seen:
An increased ability to trust and form healthy relationships.
A stronger, more positive self-image.
An increase in self-confidence.
Ability to choose to give and receive love.
Ability to work in collaboration with others to accomplish a common goal.
Ability to express thoughts and feelings in a positive manner.
Components of a Session
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Mentorship
All activities with the children are structured to uphold our Primary goal of creating a safe, loving environment to mentor children.
We invite children to come as they are. The mentor leaders will work hard to pair kids with an activity or horse that will encourage them toward hope and personal growth.
TRU Principals are woven throughout the sessions
T = TRUST
R = RESPECT
U = UNDERSTANDING
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Activities
All activities will be chosen at the discretion of each individual leader. Some of these activities involve working with horses, crafts, games, chores, and life skills.
One option is “horse painting.” Hope’s Haven horses come in all sizes and colors- they are gentle and make great canvases for those who do not wish to ride.
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Education
Within each program session we strive to educate kids in equine care and safety.
Lesson plans are individualized by the mentor leader for each child.
They will learn about horse grooming & care as well as horse handling basics.
To learn more about how your child can participate in the program, please submit the “Program Inquiry” form to Hope’s Haven. Our program coordinator will then be in contact with you to provide you with additional details concerning eligibility and scheduling. All participants must be approved as there are a limited number of sessions available each month. Although we cannot guarantee participation for every child, Hope’s Haven will do their best to accommodate as many participants as possible.
Requirements for Participation: Our program session is open to children, ages 7-17 who are struggling with conflicts or trauma. On occasion, based on need, age exceptions will be considered. The only other “requirement” is that the child wants to come & participate. Hope’s Haven understands that every child deals with their own set of unique challenges. Each session leader will work hard to adapt the session to meet the individual needs of each child.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a session cost?
Our program is at no cost to families. By God’s grace, Hope’s Haven continues to be blessed and is able to offer the program completely free of charge. So far this year, we’ve been blessed by our incredible family of donors and sponsors throughout PA, who committed funds to support what the Lord is doing through Hope’s Haven.
What should my child wear?
-Shoes/boots with closed toes and closed heels are required. Shoes/boots with little or no tread and a heel are recommended. (sometimes we may have some extras on hand, so let us know if you don’t have this type of shoe/boot).
-Long pants are recommended for riding.
-Nothing is permitted to be hanging down from the neck or around the waistline while riding.
-During cooler Spring/Fall days, layered clothing is recommended.
Does my child need to bring anything?
To promote individual responsibility, we recommend and encourage each child to bring his/her own water bottle, sunscreen (and bug spray, if needed).
Can I be involved as a parent?
It is important for the mentor leader to develop a relationship with your child. Parents are required to remain on the property during program sessions. We have a waiting area for parents or guardians while a session is going on.
What makes up a session?
Lesson plans are individualized by the mentor leader for each child. The following flexible, 90 minute schedule includes: Chores, horse grooming, arena lesson plan activities and sharing time. If a parent needs to cancel a session, a make up session cannot be guaranteed. If Hope’s Haven has to cancel a session, we will do our best to reschedule.
Can my child stay at the facility?
Hope’s Haven is not a residential facility. Therefore, the majority of children in our program live in close proximity to the farm. If you do not live nearby and would like to participate, please inform us of your travel plans at least one month in advance. If space is available, out-of-town guests will be worked into the program schedule.
