About Us

Praying Hands Ranches, Inc. (PHR) was founded in 1987 by Carl and Shirley Hanson, in Parker, Colorado.  For a child or an adult with a physical, developmental or emotional challenge, life looks a great deal brighter on horseback.  It is medically proven that the power, warmth, and movement of the horse strengthens and tones muscles, improves balance, head control, and coordination, builds self-esteem and offers a sense of freedom.  The feeling of achievement and control that comes from riding and maneuvering a horse is a strong medicine. 

That's Why We Are Here!     

Praying Hands Ranch (PHR) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) Christian organization committed to meeting the needs of handicapped children and adults, as well as troubled youth, in a ranch environment therapeutic center through Hippotherapy served by therapists, Equine by registered instructors, and  Horticultural programs served by Douglas County Master Gardeners.  PHR is a non-denominational organization.  Clients' ages range from 24 months to 72 years.  We serve all handicaps that have been medically released:  Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Autism, emotionally disabled, Down Syndrome, multiple handicapped, Hydrocephalic, Multiple Sclerosis, Brain Damage, Stroke and others.  PHR also serves mental health needs by appointment. 

Praying Hands Ranch  has grown from seven clients to over 100 per week.  PHR was established at the present address and has grown to include an indoor riding arena, two outside riding arenas, stable, hay barn, small animal paddocks and houses:  greenhouse, sensory gardens, vegetable and perennial gardens, tool shed, garage/shop, and caretaker's house.  Our indoor facility houses offices, Physical Therapy and treatment room, chapel, break room, horse stalls, and a large riding arena with an upper-level viewing room. 

PHR serves disabled children and adults in eight-week session segments.  PHR has a constant waiting list of clients - children and adults.   All prospective clients (groups and individuals) register by mail.  Please give Praying Hands the following information in your letter:   Name, Age, Height, Weight, special needs, and goals that each prospective client would like to accomplish at PHR Equine Program.  Also, give PHR three choices of days and times.  Submission of this letter does not guarantee acceptance into any equine program at PHR.  Praying Hands Ranch reserves the right to decline services to any client.  Classes are held 9:00 to 6:00 Monday through Saturday.  (At this time Saturday has a waiting list.)  

OUR PRIMARY TASK IS GIVING ALL CLIENTS AN OPPORTUNITY TO:

• GROW MENTALLY, PHYSICALLY, AND EMOTIONALLY STRONG

• GAIN SELF-ESTEEM

• BECOME INDEPENDENT

• LEARN TO CARE FOR OTHERS

• BE COURAGEOUS ENOUGH TO OVERCOME FEARS AND ACHIEVE A BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE OVERALL

Praying Hands Ranch (PHR) is always in need of monetary donations to supplement income to cover general operating expenses. PHR receives no State or Federal funds. 

Praying Hands Ranch's Income consists of:

• Equine Program Clients -- 35.93%

• Donations -- 33.89%

• Fundraising -- 26.64%

• Therapy Department -- 3.44%

• Interest/Miscellaneous Income -- 0.11%

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