Another Year!

Another shiny, new year has started at The Gentle Barn to work with animals rescued from abuse and neglect and connect them to people who have suffered the same. This year we are hosting groups from probation camps, drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers, domestic violence shelters, foster agencies, and at-risk teens from South Central Los Angeles. Through the love and hope that the animals give them, and the stories of resilience that they tell, our guests learn kindness, compassion, confidence, and find themselves in the barnyard. Each month they engage in a new activity to cultivate self-awareness and hope for the future; like planting in the garden to connect with nature, groom the horses and practice body language and authenticity, walk horses and practice leadership skills, go on nature walks and talk about resilience, do projects on the ranch to find self-worth, and breath the life back into newly rescued animal to heal themselves at the same time. Like every year up until now, friendships are forming, confidence is being created, trust is being won, hearts are opening, stories are being told, and souls are awakening to new potentials.
This year we are also rolling out our literacy program in a big way. We are hosting children who may not have confidence in the classroom, but while they read to nurture our older animals and heal our newest animals, they practice reading, gain confidence, and benefit from pride in themselves. This program is appropriate for every age and we welcome children from many different school districts. By helping the animals, children of all backgrounds find themselves.
The Gentle Barn is a national organization that rescues animals from severe abuse and neglect. Once healed we partner with the animals to inspire people with the same stories and connect children to the love and magic of animals and nature. The Gentle Barn is open every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and during the week hosts private tours, school field trips, corporate events, and groups of children who are at risk, from the inner city, and who are differently abled. To enroll in our Peace Enhancement Program or visit The Gentle Barn go to www.gentlebarn.org and follow The Gentle Barn on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.