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Mission
Praying Hands Ranches, Inc (PHR) is a 501c3, nonprofit, organization providing Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT). PHR is a member of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH, Intl). We are committed to meeting the needs of people with disabilities through equine activities in a ranch environment, using certified riding instructors and loving volunteers. We strive to make our clients lives better using equine and small animal interactions. Our primary task is giving all clients an opportunity to grow mentally, physically, and emotionally, gain self-esteem, become independent, learn to care for others, be courageous enough to overcome fears, and achieve a better quality of life. We are committed to the humane and ethical treatment of all including our staff, volunteers, and equine and small animal partners.
History
Praying Hands Ranch was founded in 1987 by Carl and Shirley Hanson. They founded PHR with a great deal of faith and Christian principles. The Ranch has grown from serving seven clients to over 50 per week. In the beginning all lessons were outside, but over time and with tremendous support from the community PHR has grown to include 2 indoor riding arenas and horses, donkeys, sensory gardens, sheep, goats, cats, alpacas, a bunny, and chickens. The small animals are also used in our programming, especially in our small animal and outdoor therapy. Praying Hands Ranch now includes two heated indoor riding arenas, an outdoor riding arena, stables, a hay barn, small animal paddocks and houses, a greenhouse, sensory gardens, vegetable and perennial gardens, a tool shed, a garage/shop, and a caretaker's house. Our large indoor arena houses offices, physical therapy, and treatment rooms, break room, horse stalls, and a large riding arena with an upper-level lounge and viewing room. The Hanson Family was actively involved in PHR for 35 years. Although the Hanson’s are no longer actively involved their legacy remains an important part of PHR.
