Vision

There are over 10,000 veterans in Pueblo, CO. Over 40% of Veterans need mental health care. There are over 400 unhoused people in Pueblo per the last reporting period. Additionally, Pueblo has an annual rate averaging 50 suicides annually. The mental health crisis in Pueblo is sizable. If we can help our local population as well as demonstrate and educate about the healing power of horses, we can truly accomplish our mission. We aspire to achieve an inclusive space where the human-horse bond fosters healing, growth and connection, leading to improved well-being and communication as well as resilience.

Goals

1. 1.This year, I gained a new certification that should assist with this goal, I have my QBHA certification. With that, we have already expanded to group sessions with the local homeless shelter. I would like to add groups for the Mariposa Center for Safety, which provides services for those in domestic abuse situations and the veterans that work with Mnt. Carmel Veterans Services.
2. 2.Our current needs are technical: Our first priority is to grade and asphalt our entry so that we can handle the increase in traffic. We need to upgrade our entry gate to enhance the visibility and improve operation as well as increase the security of our grounds. We would like to upgrade to a more specialized tractor, as our current one does not have the ability to maintain the property properly.
3. 3.As we try to expand our general operations, we must advocate for greater education and awareness of the effectiveness of Equine Assisted Learning for those struggling with their mental health. This also gives us the opportunity to educate about animal welfare. Teaching professionals that the horses are not just tools, but sentient beings with the desire and ability to help.