The Ranch
Rusty Halo Ranch, a project of the Foundation in the start up stages, will provide a healthy environment and therapeutic programming for teens and young adults who have experience with the foster and juvenile justice systems, a history or trauma or anxiety disorders, or parent who is a Veteran with PTSD.
The Farmhouse
In addition to serving as a base for Rusty Halo’s daily therapeutic services, the Ranch will have a farmhouse onsite to house teens and young adults through referrals from local human services agencies and organizations. The farmhouse will be designed for community living, and will focus on the many ways everyone can contribute to the working ranch. This home will provide ample space for music, homework, reading, and bonding with one another. The teens will learn to cook in the "eat-in" kitchen, will be responsible for their own laundry, and will learn how to contribute to the working ranch.
The Horses
The most important function of the Ranch is to provide therapy horses that work with the teens and young adults. Bonding with a horse, regardless of one's age or circumstance, can make quite a substantial impact. Being able to work with a horse requires self-confidence, and in turn, builds self-esteem. This will carry over into everyday life, giving young people confidence in their education and in most any opportunity in which they engage.
The Family Guesthouse
The Ranch will also offer a small guest house so family members can spend time with their teens. For some, this may mean getting reacquainted after a difficult time, for others, this home presents the possibility of meeting their family for the first time. Reintegration into the family is an integral part of the youth's development and life. Having a guest house on site will allow families to reunite in a cohesive manner, while continuing to facilitate the sense of community for both the youth and their families.
Therapeutic Programming
Staff will work with each resident to develop personal plans to reach their short- and long-term goals. Programming will vary and be nimble to address each individual’s needs and learning styles, yet rooted in innovative and effective Positive Youth Development (PYD). Offerings will range from therapeutic horseback riding, Equine Assisted Therapy, EMDR, expressive arts therapies, to life skills classes and tutoring.
The overarching goal of this project is to create an atmosphere in which at-risk teens and young adults can thrive, learn, build confidence and forge their own healthy path with the support and guidance of Rusty Halo’s qualified staff.