We are non-profit, we exist only on donations, volunteers and faith. We do not charge for any program, we only ask for donations to help keep the farm running and for improvements. With special fund raisers for the purchase of additional animals and to become an official 501(c)(3). Donations can be in the form of cash, supplies, work or anything else we may need to continue. We use miniature anima
ls because children tend to be less intimidated by their size, and ours have great personalities. Our focus at the moment is children 7-16 years old, this is not to say that programs can't be designed for other ages. These are "At Risk" children that are either having problems relating to other kids and/or adults, have been subject to bullying, or are showing signs of withdrawal from activities and other people, or special needs children including those that are mildly autistic. What may seem like just playing may actually be teaching new behaviors. The child may be cleaning, stalls, grooming and feeding animals or just playing with the animals. We really don't want to put a label on the type of kids we want to involve in the program, we feel that all kids can gain self-confidence, learn basic behavior skills, work in groups and not have to be afraid to enjoy life. We know that many children have real limitations and we will work around those to allow the child to participate in as many activities as possible. A plan will be established for each child that will include basic activities, goals and achievements, this will be based on answers from the questionnaires that each child will have to have on file and interviews with the parent or guardian. Each child will need to have a parent or guardian on site at all times, the parent or guardian will be able to choose whether or not they want to participate in the plan. All sessions will range from one to two hours each, they may be one-on-one or group sessions. We will periodically also hold special events that the whole family may be invited to. We know there will be challenges along the way but any blatant disregard for safety or lack of respect for another child or adult will result in termination of the child’s plan. Safety for the children and the animals will always hold the highest priority. There will be drinking water available at all times and a snack will be provided normally at the end of the session. We will be adding and creating new programs as we go, all suggestions are welcome. When funding allows we will become a 501 (c)(3) organization that will allow us to apply for grants and other government support. Remember we always need volunteers. UPDATE - We have become an official 501(c)3 organization, donations can be deducted on your tax return. look for future updates including a new program called Play Date for mildly autistic young children, hopefully to start in the spring.
