AFTER 21 years of service and impact in the region and beyond, the Horses for Hope program will cease is its therapeutic services on May 30, 2025. Despite ongoing community support and continuous efforts made by management, the non-profit is unable to financially sustain the delivery of the program in its current form, given the current economic environment.
Founder and Board of Management Chair, Colin Emonson, said this news brings sadness and disappointment, especially for those currently engaged in the program.
“We share the difficulty of processing this decision. To everyone who has walked this path with us; participants, families, horse owners, donors, supporters, sponsors, advocates, staff and directors – thank you. Your support, contributions and connection has made a lasting difference to the lives of thousands of people and hundreds of horses.
“Thanks for helping us challenge convention and do something profound that made a difference to people and horses’ lives,” Colin said.
Based in North Mooroopna, Horses for Hope provides a unique healing environment for people and horses who have experienced trouble, trauma, or distress. The equine-assisted narrative therapy program aims to improve the lives of these individuals through individual and group sessions, as well as community and corporate programs.
Horses for Hope is dedicated to research and evaluation, partnering with universities, institutes, and community services to assess the impact of this one-of-a-kind service.
Acting Manager and counsellor, Jack O’Sullivan, said, “I’ve been deeply moved by the commitment and dedication of the program’s participants. I am grateful in knowing our efforts will continue to benefit people and communities.
“While the Horses for Hope program and charity is concluding, its impact will continue. We will ensure our horses are cared for into the future as they move into the next phase of their own journeys.”
Staff will be working over the coming weeks to make sure all participants, donors and other supporters have been directly contacted. If people have further enquiries or need to speak to the organisation, email: info@horsesforhope.org.au
