Spotlight: The Children’s Ranch Foundation

From time to time, I will highlight a program, resource or service in the special needs community that has become a great addition to our lives.

This week, I will be sharing about a hidden gem here in Los Angeles – The Children’s Ranch Foundation, located in Atwater Village.

The Children’s Ranch offers unique therapeutic equestrian programs for kids and teens with special needs. Some of these programs are private riding lessons, social groups and therapeutic teen camps. Programs are customized for each child. Because I can’t say this more perfectly, here’s a blurb directly from the website : “The Ranch moves at “just the right pace,” becoming a refuge for the families it serves, and holding families close during often tumultuous times.”

Due to Arizona’s early obsession with horses, it became clear that we needed to get her around real ones as soon as possible. We are so grateful that we found the ranch. Arizona has been taking weekly lessons and participating in monthly social skills groups for the past few years now. She feels calm, happy and regulated at the ranch. Furthermore, she has gained a confidence around her newfound riding skill. It gives her something to be proud of and talk about with family and friends.

Note : scholarships are available for families in need of financial assistance.