Ben’s Ranch Foundation Small Group Programs

Is your teen facing mental health hardships? Get them away from their triggers and out in the dirt!
Are you looking for a way to improve your teen’s mental health through nature and animal interaction? Studies show that time spent outdoors and engaging with animals can significantly benefit mental well-being. Ben’s Ranch Foundation Small Group Programs offer just that. Our programs foster emotional and mental health through stimulating farm or stable work experiences, including animal interaction, plant care, physical outdoor labor, and teamwork. Our first during the week small group start July 16th!  Register today!

Program Details 

  • Sessions: This program meets over six sessions, each lasting three hours, at various host sites.  
  • Focus Areas: Farm work basics, livestock handling, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. 
  • Cost: $300.00* 
 *Financial Assistance 

We offer a sliding scale discount up to a full waiver based on household size and income. To inquire about eligibility for a discount/waiver, email us at programs@bensranch.org. 

  • 2025 Dates:
  • WEDNESDAY SMALL GROUP July 16- August 20 4:30-7:30PM (7/16,7/23,7/30,8/6,8/13,8/20)
  • AUG 9- SEP 20 9:00-12:00 Koteewi Stables (8/9,8/16,8/23,9/6,9/13,9/20) (skipping 8/30 Labor Day WKD) 
  • AUG 9- SEP 20 9:00-12:00 Morning Dove –Whitestown (8/9,8/16,8/23,9/6,9/13,9/20) (skipping 8/30 Labor Day WKD) 
  • OCT 18 – NOV 22 9-12:00 Koteewi Stables (10/18,10/25,11/1,11/8,11/15,11/22)
  • OCT 18 – NOV 22 12:00-3:00) Harmony in Horses – Sheridan (10/18,10/25,11/1,11/8,11/15,11/22)

Eligibility Criteria for BRF Small Group Programs 

  • Age 13-18
  • Experience with mental or emotional health challenges
  • Physically able to perform heavy lifting and manual labor
  • Stable, with no inpatient care or suicide attempts in the past 60 days
  • BRF Programs are not suitable for those with complex disorders requiring specialized supervision
  • No evidence of active addiction; if substance abuse has been an issue, teens must be sober and in recovery
“I think E. learned a lot about himself during his small group program. He is learning the benefits of giving and receiving respect and I’m proud that he committed himself to this program and gave it his all. We may have found a life long love and I look forward to see where E. can go with it.”
 
– C.K., Parent of a former BRF Small Group Participant