Who We Serve
The Wellness Ranch Equine-Assisted Learning Program serves individuals ages 4–75 with mild to moderate developmental disabilities who can safely participate in structured, ground-based (non-riding) activities.
Our program supports confidence, communication, emotional regulation, independence, social skills, and community participation through meaningful experiences with horses and other ranch animals.
Certified Support For
Autism Spectrum
Disorder
Developmental
Delays
Down Syndrome
Intellectual Disabilities
Mild Cerebral
Palsy
Other Stable
Developmental
Conditions
Participants complete an intake and assessment to ensure the program fits their needs.
Program Eligibility
Participation Requirements
Self-Care
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Independent with toileting and personal hygiene
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No hands-on assistance with hygiene, eating, or transfers
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Able to respond to verbal prompts
Functional Skills
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Follow simple 1–2 step directions
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Participate approximately 30 minutes
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Minimal redirection needed
Communication
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Speech
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Sign Language
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AAC Devices
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Gestures
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Visual Supports
Note: Non-English speakers may be accommodated on a case-by-case basis
Mobility
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Ambulatory participants welcome
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Non-ambulatory participants welcome with appropriate supports
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Must safely navigate the ranch environment
Behavioral Supports
Wellness Ranch welcomes participants with mild behavioral support needs that can be safely managed through verbal redirection and structured support within the program.
To ensure the safety of all participants, staff, volunteers, visitors, and animals, the program is not appropriate for individuals with a current history of behaviors that cannot be safely supported in this setting.
Prohibited Behaviors Include:
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Physical aggression towards people and animals
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Credible threats of violence
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Elopement or attempts to leave the premises without staff authorization
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Self-injurious behaviors that cannot be safely managed
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Intentional fire-setting or attempts to ignite fires
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Bringing or using alcohol, illegal drugs, weapons, or other prohibited substances on program property
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Theft of property belonging to participants, families, staff, volunteers, or Wellness Ranch
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Sexual activity, sexual misconduct, or inappropriate sexual behaviors during program participation
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Abusive, threatening, or harassing behavior by participants, parents, or guardians toward Wellness Ranch staff or volunteers
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Repeated refusal to follow established safety protocols after appropriate intervention and redirection
How to Register
Contact Your
Regional Center
After submitting the pre-registration form. families should request authorization from both their:
1) Regional Center
Service Coordinator, and
2) Financial Management Services
Step 2
Wait for Authorized Approval
Once Wellness Ranch receives authorization we will:
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Confirm enrollment
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Finalize registration
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Provide program details
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Send next steps
Please note: A pre-registration form does not guarantee enrollment. Enrollment is confirmed only after Wellness Ranch receives Regional Center authorization and spot becomes available.
Step 3
Process & Policies
Wellness Ranch requires various processes and policies that must be adhered to in order to foster a safe and successful learning environment. You can learn more about our expectations by clicking the "Process & Policies" link or the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to learn more about general regional center policy.