Community Outreach Programs
As a sanctuary, we strive to do as much as we can to eliminate the horrific loss of equine life due to slaughter, abandonment and abuse. We provide a safe haven for horses through rescue, rehabilitation, refuge and rehoming. An important aspect of our process and one of the ways in which we are unique, is encouraging horses to interact with as many people as they can, so they feel love from as many people as possible. As a nonprofit animal rescue, this also allows us to not only help our horses, but people.
We host programs for:
Our youth programs teach horsemanship, responsibility, compassion, confidence and agricultural awareness.
We are not just raising better riders. We are raising kinder humans. The programs we host give those who often feel forgotten and who may not be able to own and care for an animal, the ability to interact with our horses in a safe environment and experience the positive benefits of doing so.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 25% of U.S. adults struggle with mental health. In recent years especially, mental health struggles have significantly increased in our society. Based on studies, it’s believed that 65% of kids who grow up with a pet are better equipped to emotionally handle trauma, and 36% are less likely to have poor social skills. Research also shows that 84% of pet owners of all ages feel their animals have a positive influence on their lives and mental health. Studies show horses can assist in the betterment and healing of individuals and positively impact them by decreasing stress, blood pressure and cortisol and increasing emotional awareness, empathy and confidence.
Programs for Youth
February Star Sanctuary hosts youth horsemanship and horseback riding programs for kids ages 6-17, every month, often with extras in the summer. Our youth programs give kids a hands-on educational experience at a working animal sanctuary, develop life skills and promote compassion for animals. Youth participants, most of whom are underprivileged, usually have no experience in a rural surrounding or with horses. Yes, all are welcome!
Through interactions with our rescue horses, kids learn proper horsemanship, horseback riding techniques, responsibility by discovering what it requires to be a proper horse owner (e.g., how to feed, groom, muck stalls, identify poisonous flora) and why it’s important to care for defenseless animals. We feel teaching the next generation to respect and protect even the most vulnerable creatures among us is one of the most important life lessons we can pass on. These programs also promote healthy physical practices and give kids a safe space to socially interact, while building confidence.
Additionally, while on-site, kids learn about agriculture and equine industry careers and the fulfilling, financially stable futures they can provide. As our programs are inclusive for all kids, underprivileged youth participate at no cost to their families. If you have a kid who loves horses, we hope to see you soon!
Programs for Disabled Children and Adults
Our programs for disabled adults and kids, facilitated by the Scott Key Center, provide a safe, relaxing and therapeutic environment for those with disabilities to interact with our horses. Participants partake in essential horsemanship activities, while also intermingling socially and practicing compassion for animals. Participants will see that all of our rescue horses, regardless of their rehabilitation needs, are worthy of our care and love.
Programs for Seniors
Our programs for nursing homes allow us to give senior citizens, most of whom have physical limitations, a morale boost without even leaving their home. These programs help them know they are certainly not forgotten. We provide a benefit to horses, promote important values in humans, such as empathy, patience, companionship and responsibility, while also reducing stress and social anxiety. If you manage a nearby nursing home and would like to inquire about visits, please email us.
Get Involved In Our
Outreach Programs
Interested in participating in one of our outreach programs? Fill out the form below and a member of our team will be in touch with next steps.