Madison Youth Ranch

Equine Therapy Benefits

The Madison Youth Ranch was opened in 2014 and offers children a rural, country setting in which they can roam, play, and heal. One of the outstanding programs at the Youth Ranch is the Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) program with the assistance of Pinky and Sugar, our resident horses. The Stickney Stable, dedicated on July 10, 2015 makes a wonderful addition to the scenic pastures and completes an ideal location for the children and horses.

The EAP program helps children develop healthy relationships and a strong work ethic, as well as overcome fears, build teamwork, and much more. A child’s responses to the horses can also provide excellent insight into the child’s opinions of self and of others, especially authority figures.

In May of 2016, the Youth Ranch dedicated the Margaret R. Scully Aquatic Center, featuring a pool for the children to enjoy on those hot summer days. Ground was also broken later that year on two new buildings, the Chapel and the Counseling and Support Services Center.

Completed and dedicated in 2018, the Chapel provides the children with a place to worship, as well as space for music and other activities. Prior to having their own chapel, the children attended a local United Methodist Church for services. The Counseling and Support Services Center provides the necessary space for our therapist to meet with and treat the children residing at the Youth Ranch, including individual and group sessions. The building also provides space for tutoring, a clinic, group meeting room, and a tornado safe room in case of inclement weather.