Happy New Year!
During this time of reflection and celebration of light, we feel full of gratitude and hope for what is unfolding at Connected Horse. We are excited to share our stories with you more regularly. This incredible journey, starting in 2015 at Stanford and UC Davis, has grown to serve participants all over the country and allowed hundreds of horses to find new purpose.
When we created Connected Horse, our goal was to create equine-assisted programming that improves the relationship between individuals living with dementia and their care partners. With the commitment and hard work of a dedicated team, our vision continues to be realized.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all of our “herd” — our horses, barn partners, facilitators, horse handlers, dedicated volunteers, and all of our generous donors. You all play an integral role in shaping Connected Horse. Some of our accomplishments in 2023 include:
- Changed hundreds of lives through more than 50 In-Person Workshops.
- Hosted Lassos with Love our inaugural fundraising event at 5 Star Equestrian Center. Kansas Carradine charmed the guests with a special horse and lassos presentation.
- Expanded our Barn At Home Program. The program offers Sensory Engagement Kits for those in adult day programs, senior living communities, and at home.
- Developed and launched a new website thanks to the patience and talent of many of our friends and colleagues
As we enter 2024, we look ahead with excitement, deepening our impact by expanding and partnering with more people and barns to do this important work. This newsletter is one way we want to stay better connected with all of you. Let us know what kind of information you’d like us to share. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being a part of the Connected Horse herd.
Let’s keep inspiring each other to spend more time with these amazing horses at the barn.
With Gratitude,
Paula Hertel and Nancy Schier Anzelmo
Connected Horse Co-Founders
