During Mental Health Awareness Month, I’m proud to help raise funds for the Flying Horse Foundation, which uplifts youth and families through equine-assisted services—programs that nurture confidence, connection, and the inherent worth of every life while fostering positive, life-changing skills that extend far beyond the ranch.
I’ve had the privilege of volunteering with Flying Horse for the past five years, and I’ve seen firsthand the powerful impact of this program. Students often say their time at the ranch is the highlight of their week—a place where they feel safe, welcome, and truly seen. There, they are encouraged to grow emotionally, build confidence, strengthen interpersonal skills, develop horse-handling and care skills, and simply have fun—all while gaining skills that shape their lives in meaningful and lasting ways.
Horses have a remarkable ability to calm and connect with people. Watching students care for and interact with them is powerful—a healing experience that builds trust, deepens empathy, and brings genuine joy. Time and again, I’ve seen students arrive dysregulated and unsettled, only to step into the arena with the horses and quickly become calm, centered, and in control. The shift is immediate and profoundly positive.
As a long-time volunteer, I’ve also witnessed the remarkable quality of the staff. They care deeply for both the students and the animals, and they are exceptionally gifted and well-trained. With patience and compassion, they guide students through challenges, offering encouragement at every step.
Every gift—regardless of size—goes directly toward sustaining these programs and the people they support, creating meaningful experiences with lasting impact. I hope you’ll consider joining me in supporting this vital work. Truly, every contribution matters—$5, $10, $25, $50.
For those who are able to give more, here are a few examples of how donations can help:
$100 can support essential farrier care for the horses
$250 can help provide new bridles
$500 can contribute to shavings and bedding
$1,000 can help purchase a new saddle
The Flying Horse Foundation is a private charitable organization committed to advancing the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of at-risk youth, families, and seniors in our community—and together, we can extend that impact even further.
6 Responses
Mental Health awareness and support is a desperate need in the nation right now. Thank you for doing this, Jean.
I’m so grateful for people who use their time, talents and resources to serve others. It’s amazing that God has gifted us with these incredible animals to help us heal! What a beautiful collaboration!
So happy to be a part of the joy and healing this program is bringing to so many! Bless you, Jean, for the work you do with the Flying Horse Foundation! Rick and Debbie
As a lifelong horse lover and rider I have experienced the healing power of horses and am so honored to be able to donate to an organization that is making a huge impact in the sometimes forgotten area of youth mental health. Thank you Jean for this opportunity
I am very familiar with the power of equine therapy.
My son is a breeder and trainer.
Appreciate your heart, Jean. Meaningful work!