The Place of Horses DBA The Whole Horse Place

The Whole Horse Place – Our Story

At The Whole Horse Place, we believe in the healing power of connection—between people and animals, between youth and experience, and between challenge and hope. Our nonprofit sanctuary pairs rescued senior horses with people of all ages and backgrounds, creating a unique community where both horses and humans have the chance to thrive.

What We Do

We rescue senior horses, many who have nowhere else to go, and give them a loving, permanent home surrounded by care and purpose. Every horse at The Whole Horse Place receives individualized attention, high-quality feed, medical care, and a safe place to live out their years with respect.

But our work is just as much about people as it is about horses. We invite individuals of all ages and abilities—including youth, veterans, families, and anyone facing challenges—to join us in meaningful, hands-on experiences. Through daily chores, horse care, and tailored classes, participants learn skills like responsibility, empathy, and teamwork. While riding is included for those who are ready, our main focus is on building relationships and learning through daily care: feeding, grooming, stall cleaning, basic veterinary support, and truly listening to the horses.

Our Programs

Ranch Hands is a multi-week program where participants learn every aspect of horse care, leadership, and barn management, with riding as an earned privilege.
Stable Paths is a free substance abuse prevention program guided by licensed mental health and substance abuse counselors, and peer mentors. This program supports both youth and veterans in developing emotional regulation, decision-making, and leadership skills.
Barn Buddies and Family Horse Time offer shorter sessions that make the barn accessible for families and young children.
Veterans Horse Time provides a welcoming space for veterans to connect with horses and with each other in a supportive, non-judgmental setting.

Our senior volunteer program brings together adults who have found new purpose and belonging at the barn. Many of our senior volunteers have formed a close-knit community, supporting each other while making a difference for the horses and everyone who comes to our program.

Why It Matters

Our horses, many of whom have experienced neglect, illness, or trauma, become remarkable teachers. Their patience and deep understanding help people develop self-awareness, confidence, and coping skills. Every day in our barn, we witness moments of resilience and hope: a young person discovering strength through caring for a horse, a veteran finding peace in the presence of a wise old mare, or a family learning together while working in the garden.

Our approach is grounded in compassion, real-world learning, and acceptance. We never turn anyone away for inability to pay, and we welcome everyone who wants to make a meaningful difference in the life of a horse—and in their own life as well.

Impact

In the past year, The Whole Horse Place served over 250 people and cared for 12 senior horses. We have supported young people struggling with loss, foster youth, families in crisis, and veterans facing isolation. Participants leave with new skills, confidence, and lifelong memories, while our horses receive the love and care they deserve.

How We’re Supported

We are entirely volunteer-run, and our work is made possible by the generosity of donors, grants, and community partners. Every gift goes directly to the care of the horses and the continuation of our programs. Whether it is a donation, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, your support has a direct and lasting impact.

Join Us

Whether you are interested in volunteering, participating in a program, or supporting us with a donation, we invite you to be part of The Whole Horse Place community. Together, we are creating a place where people and horses heal, grow, and find purpose—one day, and one hoofprint, at a time.