In the Company of Horses

August 20, 2025

At Candlelight Ranch, our equine-assisted learning program offers children and families a unique way to connect, with animals, with each other, and with themselves. Our stables, nestled in a shaded oak grove, provide a peaceful setting where visitors are invited to slow down and be present in the calming company of our horses and donkey. For many, the experience is transformative: children who are nonverbal squeal with delight; young girls who have experienced trauma feel safe and seen; youth from the inner city, some encountering a horse for the first time, face their fears and leave with broadened horizons and newfound confidence. Families often share that they leave the stables feeling more grounded, peaceful, and connected to one another.

During one visit, an 18-year-old young man with autism who was nonverbal throughout his life stood beside one of our gentle horses, quietly stroking its neck. In that calm moment, he made his first-ever vocal sound. His mother reported that she had never before heard him express anything through sound. The experience allowed her to see her son in a new light, a reminder that even after many years he continues to reach new milestones.

Moments like this don’t happen every day, and we never promise them, but we strive to create conditions where connection, safety, and curiosity can do their quiet work. For this family, a simple touch, a calm breath, and the steady presence of a horse opened a door that had never opened before.

Each of our equine teachers brings their own quiet magic. Astro, our affectionate donkey, is a playful soul who gently rests his head in the laps of children in wheelchairs. Lindy, our sweet paint, loves cuddles and welcomes every visitor with warmth. And Comet, our calm and steady quarter horse, carries quiet strength with just the right touch of sass. Their unique personalities reflect the beautiful diversity of the families we serve, and their gentle presence continues to be one of the most cherished aspects of a visit to the Ranch. Whether it’s a deep breath, the simple joy of connection, or an incredible breakthrough, time spent at the stables leaves a lasting imprint on hearts of all ages.