There is a new non-profit in town, cofounded by Foster Youth Services Coordinator Kim Corneille, that connect system-involved youth (students in foster care and/or Juvenile Justice) to the healing power of horses. Situated on an idyllic ranch in Aromas, Horse Whispers is run by Natalie Hanneman, Pajaro Valley Unified School District social-emotional counselor and licensed Equine Assisted Psychotherapist.
In partnership with the CASA agencies of the tri-county area (Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito counties), Horse Whispers is open every Saturday from 12-3, as a space for system-involved youth to visit with their CASA Advocates and experience the horses Jackson and Morocco. Possible activities include brushing, feeding treats, walking, riding, or simply enjoying their presence and the relaxing ranch setting. Horse Whispers had a launch party on February 4th, with nearly 50 community members, families, and children attending from all 3 counties. To learn more, check out www.horsewhispersgroup.com.