SMALL GROUP PROGRAMS

Are you looking to improve your teen’s mental health by getting them out into nature but aren’t sure how to make it happen? Maybe you’ve heard that time outdoors and interaction with animals has a positive effect on mental health.

Ben’s Ranch Foundation Small Group Programs may be the answer you have been looking for.

The [BRF Small Group Program] has been such a positive experience for [our son]. He has shown so much progress since starting this. He comes home and expresses how much he is enjoying his time with the animals. I have noticed less anxiety and more calmness with him at home."
J.M.
Ben's Ranch Parent

Small Group Programs improve the emotional and mental health of participants by exposing them to stimulating and engaging work experiences on farms or stables, including interaction with animals, growing plants, physical outdoor labor, and teamwork.

Upcoming Small Group Programs

 
  • Saturday mornings, October 26 –  December 7,  9 a.m. –  Noon, Koteewi Stable & Trails, 11949 Koteewi Drive, Noblesville, IN 46060 (No session on Thanksgiving weekend, November 30)
  • SECOND LOCATION ADDED: Saturday mornings, October 26 –  December 7, 9 a.m. –  Noon, Harmony IN Horses, 8847 N. 800 E, Sheridan, IN 46069 (No session on Thanksgiving weekend, November 30)

The first step in the registration process is to complete a BRF Program Application. If you have already completed our Program Application, please email us at
programs@bensranch.org for the next steps.

 

ELIGIBLE TEEN CRITERIA

  • 14-18 years old
  • Have a documented history of mental or emotional health issues.
  • Must be physically capable of heavy lifting and other manual labor.
  • Must be stable, with no inpatient care or suicide attempts within the last 60 days.
  • This program is not a good fit for youth struggling with more complex mental health disorders or conditions requiring specially trained supervisors.
  • No evidence of active addiction. If substance abuse has been an issue, teens must be sober and in recovery.

SMALL GROUP PROGRAM DETAILS

  • The standard small group program includes six weekend sessions lasting three hours each, held at various host sites.
  • Sessions include instruction on common aspects of farm work, handling and raising livestock, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
  • The cost to participate in a BRF Small Group Program is $300.00.
  • A sliding scale discount or fee waiver is available to applicants based on household income.
  • If you would like to request a discount or see if you qualify for a waiver, please email us at: programs@bensranch.org.

Read more about the Research behind our Programs.

“It was super fun! It was hard work, but overall a very rewarding experience.”
Former Ben's Ranch Teen