Our Mission

Praying Hands Ranches, Inc.

Mission

Praying Hands Ranches Inc. (PHR) is a Christian, non denominational, charitable, nonprofit, 501 (c)(3) EAAT organization; a member of NARHA (North American Riding Handicapped Assoc.), committed to meeting the needs of mentally, emotionally and physically challenged children, adults, troubled youth and disabled veterans (Heroes on Horses) in a ranch environment therapeutic center.  EAAT is equine assisted activities and therapies.  Using occupational therapists, speech therapists, and NARHA certified riding instructors with loving volunteers, PHR strives to achieve rehabilitation for all clients.  Our primary task is giving  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 some fears and achieve a better quality of life overall.

PHR is serving over 100 handicapped clients each week at the ranch. PHR INC. owns 40 acres on which 2 heated indoor riding arenas and outdoor facilities are located.  PHR was founded at this same location in 1987. 

Programs:

Equine Assisted Activities and therapies (EAAT):

Hippotherapy:  The American Hippotherapy Association, Inc. defines hippotherapy as a physical, occupational or speech therapy treatment strategy that utilizes equine movement.  The term hippotherapy refers to the use of the movement of the horse as a treatment strategy by physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech/language pathologists to address impairments, functional limitations and disabilities in clients with servomotor and sensory dysfunction.  This treatment strategy is used as part of an integrated treatment program to achieve functional goals. 

Research shows that individuals of all ages who participate in EAAT can experience physical and emotional rewards.  For individuals with emotional challenges the unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to increased confidence, patience, strength, empowerment, independence, vigor, self esteem and just plain fun.

NARHA certified riding instructors have undergone a stringent certification process and possess a strong equine background as well as an understanding of various disabilities through continuing education based on NARHA standards.  Staff and volunteers work closely with participants to ensure safe sessions.  Trained volunteers are used for side walking and head walking the horse when needed, especially for the new riders.  A physical, cognitive or emotional special need does not limit a person for interacting with horses.  In fact such interactions can prove highly rewarding.  For instance, experiencing the rhythmic motion of a horse can be very beneficial and can show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength.

Horticultural Experience:  Plants and other natural materials in PHR sensory gardens (flowers & veggies), ponds and waterfalls, are used to make crafts which helps achieve positive emotional, physical, mental, spiritual, and social benefits.  Clients plant, cultivate, water and care for the many different gardens located on the ranch.

Small Animal Petting Farm:  A positive step forward in learning to care for others, to touch (tactile, sensory integration), to be courageous in overcoming feelings of fear & rejection, to be unconditionally loved by the animals.

Challenged (troubled) Youth Programs:  Specially designed programs for youth middle school/high school age providing youth with a lasting and restorative experience that will strengthen their relational skills using the horses as partners.  Learning basic horsemanship, care of horses, and learning how to function as a volunteer with handicapped children and adults.  Feeding and caring for horses becomes a responsibility, and the youth are unconditionally accepted, to keeping equipment and barn stalls clean, learning to ride builds their self esteem.

Heroes on Horses:  This program includes Iraq, Viet Nam and Korean veterans.  They will be able to participate in any of the above programs.  Two electric lifts have been installed to better the mounting when in equine programs.

PHR has the privilege of being supported by local churches, businesses, civic groups and Scouts with numerous Eagle Scouts projects.  PHR is a community involved operation.  Volunteers with their time, talents and love are the backbone of all PHR programs.

Revised 7/2009