At Surf & Turf Therapy, we believe that connection — to horses, to nature, and to each other — has the power to change lives.
With an initial partnership with Unidos, we launched our free horsemanship program with a simple goal: to introduce kids from the low-income neighborhoods surrounding our ranch to the joy of horses.
What began as a series of introductory sessions soon grew into something much bigger. We saw children arrive at the barn timid and unsure — hanging back from the animals and the unfamiliar setting — only to leave absolutely beaming with pride, eager to tell their parents how they rode a horse for the very first time.
Originally designed as a one-time experience, we quickly realized this couldn’t be the end of their story with us. The confidence, joy, and sense of belonging these children found in the barn was too powerful to offer just once. And so, our free horsemanship program evolved — becoming a place where kids return again and again to learn, grow, and belong.
Today, we intentionally keep our program small to better focus on personal growth, with just 6 participants each week. This allows every child to receive individualized instruction while also fostering teamwork, connection, and peer mentorship. Sessions are two hours long and thoughtfully structured so that every participant feels seen, supported, and celebrated. Many of our riders come at least once a month — often more — building both their horsemanship skills and their relationships within the group over time.
Of the children who first participated in 2021, 22 are still with us today — a testament to the value of this program. Most had never touched a horse before coming to Surf & Turf Therapy. Now, they are learning not only to ride — but to care for, lead, and connect with these incredible animals. Many have formed friendships that last well beyond their time at the ranch — friendships built on trust, teamwork, and shared accomplishment.
For several years, Surf & Turf Therapy sustained this program from our own reserve funds because we believed so strongly in the life-changing power of these experiences. But thanks to the incredible generosity of the Mentors Foundation, we now have the support to continue offering these transformational opportunities — creating not just riders, but confident, compassionate young leaders within our community.
