Help Horses Help People via Therapy

Forever Amber Acres Animal Sanctuary (FAAAS) is embarking on a bold initiative to achieve our long-term vision for our organization.  Before gaining our determination of 501-c3 non profit status in late 2013, we envisioned a time in our future when we would truly fulfill our commitment to purposeful rehabilitation of the special needs rescues that call our sanctuary “home.” Over this past year, as we’ve expanded our volunteer outreach, military veterans, children, and families facing a variety of challenges from PTSD to bullying are finding their way to us.  What’s truly remarkable is that as they spend time in the company of our animals, they report that positive human-to-animal bonding and the satisfaction of caring for our animals is providing an enhanced sense of peace and well-being.  Encouraged by our volunteers, several of whom are mental health professionals themselves, we’re taking our first steps toward developing a certified Animal Assisted Therapy (“AAT”) program which we hope to pilot on a small scale in early 2017. 

Last year were extremely fortunate to welcome Brad Buening, an Air Force veteran of 30 years, to our team. As Volunteer Coordinator, Brad is bringing quality volunteers – now referred to as “Barn Buddies,” many military veterans themselves, to our organization. 

Once we meet our $5,000 fundraising goal, we will be able to be fully certified and trained through the EAGALA model of training; and we will also be able to enhance our round pen arena with proper footing materials to make it a safer and more enjoyable work area for the participants of the eventual AAT program and our rescued horses!

Thanks for your support!