Heart Lake Farm

Living, learning and healing with horses

 

WHERE THE HERD

is our heart

Located on Vancouver Island in the traditional territory of the W̱SÁNEĆ First Nations, Heart Lake Farm was founded to provide accessible and inclusive equine-assisted health and learning services in our community. The farm is home to some very special Newfoundland Ponies and Quarter Horses chosen for their skills as partners.

HORSES ARE


remarkable teachers

Why horses? They provide honest and instant feedback, are always communicating and quick to forgive. Being around horses motivates us to be truly present and intentional. We can’t be happy and healthy unless they are as well- through caring for the herd, we learn to care for ourselves.

See our programs in action
 
 

Our Programs

  • Equine-Assisted Learning is an experiential learning program that teaches essential life skills such as communication, compassion, teamwork and leadership through group activities with horses.

  • Heart Lake Farm provides a space for individual, family and group mental health services focused on relationships, wellness and post-traumatic growth through connections with horses, nature and land.

  • We are home to workshops, research projects, special trainings and regular Alumni Days, where past participants can return for time with their hooved teachers.

Most of our programs are fully funded. Find out which Program is the right fit.

Certified by:

  • “EAL revealed some interesting food for thought about my own leadership style and how I approach new team members and things that intimidate me.”

  • "The team was fantastic. I felt at ease with them right away. I always felt welcomed and valued - that what we were doing and experiencing was positive. They were so encouraging."

  • “You provided a warm environment, the horses all seemed very content and happy to participate which is very important. The program was well organized and executed, and never failed to surprise us every time.”

  • "I’ve learned a lot about myself and my communication style. There was a big emphasis on teamwork and trust which I really enjoyed."

  • “Spending time with horses and a therapist has helped me learn how to slow down. I am kinder and more observant of those around me. I’ve learned how my energy affects others and am more optimistic about my relationships.”

In the news with our partner The Victoria Brain Injury Society

The Horsemanship for Life Project

The Horsemanship For Life Project at Charitable Impact has been created to share our passion for how horses and people can work together for our mutual benefit. All funds raised will be forwarded on to organizations who do critical work in equine-assisted services. If you are a leader in the health or education sectors and would like to know how to qualify funding to access equine-assisted learning for your group or class, we’d love to hear from you.