The Children’s Ranch Foundation introduces an animal caretaking initiative designed for children, teenagers, and young adults with diverse abilities, including those tackling learning, social/emotional, and developmental challenges. Crafted by a dedicated team of women specializing in therapeutic horsemanship, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, and special education, their community program offers tailored lessons to meet the unique needs of each student. Beyond traditional horseback riding programs, the focus extends to the care of various animals such as horses, rabbits, chickens, and guinea pigs, fostering emotional awareness and creating a common language for families.

The impact of the L.L. Foundation for Youth has been instrumental in advancing their mission. Their full funding of the Lulu Xochi Calderon Program stands as a testament to their commitment. This initiative provided 12 young adults facing significant developmental, social/emotional, and learning challenges with the opportunity to work at the Ranch for over 5 months. The young adults experienced substantial benefits from this support, including access to a dedicated space and responsive support staff attuned to their specific needs.

This collaboration not only expanded the reach of their program but also underscored the Foundation’s dedication to creating transformative opportunities for those overcoming unique challenges. The partnership between The Children’s Ranch Foundation and the L.L. Foundation for Youth exemplifies the power of collective efforts in fostering positive change and providing meaningful experiences for young individuals navigating developmental journeys.