The Program Today/Equine Assisted Learning/Mentoring
Currently, Son Shine Farm Refuge (SSFR) serves several individuals and families in NW Minnesota. We have eight horses that each have their own story, and we pair these horses with one child and one leader for a session of purposeful activity to build lasting relationships where each person is free to learn about himself/herself with the aid of a loving mentor and a friendly horse. This is what we call a “session.”
These sessions are like clay in the hands of a potter, unique and moldable to meet the individual needs of each child, adult or family. Every person is nurtured by a leader who shares in the person’s challenges and victories.
Although a primary focus of SSFR is to reach at-risk youth, our program is available for any child, adult, or couple. The only true requirement for those visiting the Refuge is that they want to participate. It is from this willingness that broken hearts and lives can be led toward the healing power of Jesus. Through hands-on experience, individuals are taught the values of faith, trust, hope, and family.
We have built strong relationships with local county organizations that serve youth and families faced with extraordinary challenges. SSFR reserves sessions for those children referred by these organizations. Approximately 60% of our session program is referral-based.
As statistics of broken and blended households continue to rise, we seek to provide—in every possible way—what each individual desires. . . the love of a family. We seek to mentor the family unit as well as the child to teach what a biblical family looks like and God’s desire for fathers, mothers and children. The Refuge will be having monthly family nights in the Barn as a time of fellowship and teaching.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalm 137:3
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30