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. 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* 
March 28 SG Registration Open
 *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. 

Ben’s Ranch Foundation is an approved vendor for the Indiana Educational Scholarship Account (ESA). Families can now use their ESA funds to access our programs and services. For more information, please visit: www.in.gov/tos/inesa/parent-page/

Upcoming Dates: Registration opens 30 days prior to the start date

  • 6-week Small Group, Saturdays – March 28-May 2 – 9AM-Noon – Koteewi Stables & Trails, Noblesville
  • 6-week Small Group, Fridays – June 5-July 10 – 9AM-12PM, Harmony in Horses, Sheridan (This SG does not include riding)
  • 6-week Small Group, Saturdays – June 6-July 18th (skipping 7/4 weekend) – 11AM-2PM, Carmel Equestrian Center, Carmel

Eligibility Criteria for BRF Small Group Programs 

  • Age 13-18
  • Experience with mental or emotional health challenges
  • Physically able to perform 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
1-877-66-FARMS
Email:

info@bensranch.org

Address:

PO Box 3952

Carmel, IN 46082

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