Equine Therapy Fund for Child Abuse Victims
Restoring Hope, Rebuilding Lives: Equine-Assisted Therapy Partnership between Traverse Bay Children’s Advocacy Center and Peace Ranch
Our shared vision and demonstrated success
In March 2022, TBCAC and Peace Ranch launched this pilot program with the generous support of The Clark Family Foundation. Immediately, the benefits of this partnership were visible. Out of TBCAC clients who have scored high in suicidal ideation, 100% have shown a reduction in their rate since beginning services at Peace Ranch. TBCAC and Peace Ranch are proud to report that 100% of referred participants participated/engaged in therapy, 100% improved emotional regulation, 100% improved relationships at home and school, and 100% of clients with developmental issues made progress.
With your support, we will establish the Equine Therapy Fund for Child Abuse Victims—a dedicated resource ensuring that every child who has undergone a forensic interview at TBCAC has access to transformative equine-assisted therapy at Peace Ranch, regardless of their family’s ability to pay. This fund will cover the costs of therapy sessions, horse care, and specialized staff, removing financial barriers for families in crisis.
The Need
Children who have experienced abuse often struggle with anxiety, depression, difficulty forming relationships, and challenges in emotional regulation. The child forensic interview process, while necessary, can be emotionally taxing and may leave children feeling vulnerable and isolated. Traditional talk therapy is not always enough—especially for young survivors whose trauma is too deep or complex for words.
The Solution
Peace Ranch, located in Traverse City, offers a unique, evidence-based approach to trauma recovery: equine-assisted therapy. This experiential therapy pairs children with gentle, highly attuned horses in a safe, natural environment. Under the guidance of licensed therapists, children engage in activities such as grooming, and leading—building trust, communication, and self-regulation skills in the process.
Research shows that equine-assisted therapy can significantly reduce symptoms of trauma, including anxiety, depression, and behavioral dysregulation. Horses, as non-judgmental and responsive animals, help children learn to trust again, regulate their emotions, and develop healthy relationships. The sensory experience of working with horses supports children in reconnecting with their bodies and fosters a sense of mastery and empowerment.
Your Impact
Your gift to the Equine Therapy Fund will help transform the lives of our community’s children. Together, we can ensure that after the trauma of abuse and the difficult forensic interview process, every child has the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive.
Join Us - Be A Part of the Solution
With your support, children will…
experience reduced symptoms of post-traumatic stress, improved emotional regulation, and increased self-confidence.
learn to trust again and build healthy relationships through safe, structured interactions with horses.
be empowered to take an active role in their own healing, fostering resilience and hope for the future.
