Horse Program - About Us

As in all of our programs here at Salem, the focus of the Horse Program is the youth whom we serve. The basic intentions of the Horse Program is that it be used therapeutically and vocationally. Vocationally, the youth care for the approximately 70 horses which are donated yearly. They feed and groom the horses, clean stalls, learn to ride and show, and even take part in training. They are active in conditioning and preparing the horses for our annual auction. The program helps them combine skill development and therapeutic values such as self-esteem and self-control.

Therapeutically, these magnificent animals seem the perfect combination of strength and gentleness which the children need to pull them into a trusting friendship with a horse; a friendship which assists them in forming worthwhile relationships with others. Once a trusting relationship is established by an embittered youth, he realizes that other nurturing, caring, trusting relationships are not only worthwhile, but also necessary. The horse serves as a bridge - bridging the gap between total isolation to a sense of being needed by others. Once a child feels needed he has a purpose; once he has a purpose, he works toward fulfilling that purpose - to become a productive member of our community. Our goal is not only to bring peace to their lives, but also to give them a sense of direction for their futures. The Horse Program is helping us do just that.

Secondarily, the horse program helps raise awareness of Salem Children's Home. This in turn helps us to further our ability to provide a broader range of services to those needing it most. This section of our web page gives you the opportunity to support Salem Children's Home through the purchasing of these magnificent animals. Every attempt will be made to keep the list of available horses and services as current as possible. Again, thank you for helping us provide valuable services to children, adolescents and their families.