Mission

The Village Project, Inc., is the leading advocate for vulnerable adults, children, and families from historically underserved communities in Monterey County. Through extensive community engagement, it provides culturally appropriate mental health services, educational support, and social advocacy that enable all residents to become self-sufficient, self-directed, and self-determining members of the community.

The Big Idea

Freedom Reins provides children from underserved communities with a unique opportunity to learn about and care for horses in a peaceful ranch setting. This transformative program extends beyond horse care, teaching vital life lessons that shape how children interact with themselves, others, and the world.

Each child forms a bond with a horse and an adult mentor, engaging in weekly sessions that address their emotional needs. Through hands-on activities like feeding, cleaning, and groundwork, children build essential skills while experiencing comfort and joy. For many, the program aids in healing from the loss of a parent or caregiver, helping them rebuild trust, communication, and confidence in a supportive environment.

As they develop these skills, children 12 and up can become Horse Care Peer Mentors, supporting younger participants, and enhancing their leadership abilities.

Surrounded by nature, students gain resilience, empathy, and responsibility, carrying these lessons into all aspects of their lives.

I enjoy seeing the horses. I learn how to listen to them and brush them. Student- age 11 I like the nice horses and I am not scared anymore. I learned how to say hi to them. Student- age 6 I like being with the horses, they help me be creative. When I took a hard test at school, I thought of Astro and knew I could do it. -Student age 11 The time I spent at the horse ranch gave me so much peace, security, strength, and a lot of faith to do many things I was not emotionally strong enough to do 6 months ago. -Equine client

- Equine Participants