Did you know that one of the oldest therapeutic riding centers is located right here in Marin? Halleck Creek Ranch, a nonprofit therapeutic riding program in Nicasio, has been empowering individuals with disabilities for 43 years through equine partnerships that connect the mind, body, and soul of both horse and human. Through equine-assisted activities and therapeutic riding, they help people realize their highest potential and gain independence in a safe, supportive and inclusive environment.
Giving individuals facing varying challenges the opportunity to celebrate their victories, Halleck Creek’s trained staff and volunteers work with a special group of horses to support and encourage students, helping them push beyond their perceived limits to pursue their goals. Providing a community where everyone belongs, the ranch is a place where people are not viewed by their limitations, but for their potential. At Halleck Creek, the belief is that when one is presented with a challenge, the focus must be on what can be achieved, not on what can’t be done.
That is why, in March of this year, when many local nonprofits and businesses had to pause operations due to the pandemic, the team at Halleck Creek came together to develop a solution-driven plan for re-opening. Initially, without the ability to hold programming or utilize volunteer help, they quickly pivoted, focusing on the care of their 18 horses, the upkeep of their 60-acre ranch, and finding creative ways to stay connected with and continue to serve their community.
As their dedicated volunteers have been able to safely and methodically return to the ranch, the organization has begun offering reformatted programming. Since May, they have offered weekly Community Zoom calls for students and volunteers, as well as volunteer-docent-led “Back to the Barn” ranch visits for the families they serve. They look forward to moving into their next phase of re-opening, which will include more time with their cherished horse friends.
Halleck Creek Ranch relies deeply upon the support of generous individuals. They do not receive any state or federal funding, nor reimbursement from insurance providers. All of their students participate using a globally subsidized tuition system, and roughly 40% of the people they serve require additional scholarship support to be able to participate. Fundraising events are a significant source of income for the organization, and their Buckles & Bling Annual Fundraiser is one of their most important.
Taking place on Sunday, September 20 at 5pm PST, the Buckles & Bling event will be an evening unlike any they’ve held before. This year’s fundraiser, which will be take place online, will connect guests to the heart of Halleck Creek’s mission in a whole new way. Highlighting the individuals who bring the ranch to life, virtual attendees will get to hear the inspiring tales of Halleck Creek from the comfort of their homes. This event is free and inclusive to all, and exciting new sponsorship benefits are being offered. For more details, contact Molly Scannell at [email protected] or (415) 662-2488.
