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Youth Program

As society's demographics shift away from the baby boomers, todays' youth are under ever-increasing pressure to perform.  There is a need for them to develop sound leadership skills, and to be even more resilient than their parents were in order to cope with the increasing pace of change.  So, how do we help them succeed in this environment? 

At Heart's Haven Ranch, we offer a unique interactive, experiential learning program -- combining youth with horses to produce extraordinary results.  We invite you to partner with us on this inspirational journey, one that is making a big difference in the lives of youth in our communities.  We teach these youth that they are in charge of their own destiny, using the powerful affirmation: "I Am A Creator".  Through their interaction with their equine partner, each participant comes to understand how their actions directly affect the reactions of the horse, as well as the people around them.

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Our 12-week program (endorsed by the Saskatchewan Dept. of Advanced Education) uses a Building BlockTM process developed by the Cartier Equine Learning Centre.  Our trained facilitators lead students through specially-designed exercises, each one developed to build individual skills in our students.  As they work through each interactive group challenge, students learn to develop healthy relationships, accept responsibility and accountability, and overcome personal barriers to creating change.  Students are encouraged to be creative and innovative; find opportunity in working together; realize the benefits associated with effective communication; and recognize the value of mutual trust, respect, and personal integrity.

Additionally, equine-assisted experiential learning opportunities have proven to be a practical approach to teaching youth alternative skills for enhancing self-esteem, developing better problem solving skills and encouraging personal evaluation, all leading to enhanced personal growth.  Heart's Haven Ranch provides an opportunity to use "horse sense" to work through an equine-assisted learning program specifically designed to bring out the best in those who participate.