Frequently Asked Questions

Thanks to generous contributions from our community partners, all of our sessions are offered at no cost to the families.

Our heart is to minimize obstacles and freely welcome any youth who desire to participate in our program.

Our session program is open to hurting youth, ages 12 - 19. Hurt comes in many different forms. Any youth struggling through a difficult time are welcome.

On occasion, age exceptions are considered based on need.

Our main requirement is that the youth want to come.

We have two immediate access programs that do not have a waitlist: Teen Time & Monthly Sessions.

For those that want to get into our weekly session program there is a waitlist.

Archery currently has two spots open for the 2024/2025 session year.

Our program is not a residential program. Depending on the program they are in, our youth come out once a week or once a month for a session with a consistent mentor (Session Leader). See our Program page for more details on each individual program.

Sessions oftentimes look different depending on the needs of each individual youth. The main desire is healthy relationships and mentorship. Some youth spend time with the horses and some choose not to. We have an art studio, dogs, cats, barn chores, and even some basketball and sports options.

We wholeheartedly believe that God provided the dream for Acres of Hope and the property we call home. We desire to offer true hope and healing through God's love in action.

Our faith is also the foundation of a deep desire to create an atmosphere where everyone feels safe and welcome, no matter their religious affiliation. There is no religious requirement for the youth and families we serve.

Each teen deals with trauma, pain, and loss in different ways. For some, what they have been through can be hard to talk about. At Acres of Hope, we offer space for the kids to connect with horses; who show love, adoration, and acceptance without any words.

Horses also require their handler be a leader. Youth get to practice leadership skills in a unique and safe way.

Horses often times mirror the person they are interacting with, making them a great teacher for emotional regulation and awareness.

During the Parent/ Guardian Intake, as well as the Youth Intake Session, we ask that they fill out our paperwork focusing on six areas: self-esteem, responsibility, self-control, healthy relationships, emotions, and independence. These forms allow them to share strengths along with challenges. We use these documents twice a year to track progress and reevaluate future goals/objectives. We celebrate their growth and adjust goals as needed.

We receive referrals from a variety of sources including, but not limited to, school counselors, ER doctors, google search, and from finding us on social media. We also have partnerships with The Gate Community Center, School Based Mental Health Team, local counselors and regional counselors, and Salem/Keizer Public Schools.

All of our staff are background checked, trained in Trauma Informed Care, QPR, CPR, and have also excelled on their Horsemanship and Safety Exam.

Yes. Horses are our passion, but we want kids to be able to connect where they feel led. This may look like walking the trails throughout the acreage, picking flowers in the spring, art in our art studio, games, or hanging out with the cats & dogs. For youth who are interested in Archery, we have a separate program. Please visit the Program page for more information.