Wonder Wood Ranch: Healing Through Equine Therapy for Monterey County Youth
"Wonder Wood Ranch is the only place in my life that I feel I can do something good."
—Formally Incarcerated, Gang-Impacted Youth
Today, we would like to introduce our new client, Wonder Wood Ranch, a 501(c)3 charitable organization in Prunedale, California, serving low-income, underprivileged, gang-impacted, homeless, and children with disabilities across Monterey County. Founded by Marlo Schalesky, Wonder Wood Ranch's programs are designed to see and facilitate the transformational work of animals and other ranch activities to heal those affected by trauma and physical and intellectual disabilities.
Wonder Wood Ranch offers several programs, including the innovative T.A.I.L.S. (Trauma-Informed, Animal-Assisted, Interactive, Leadership & Life Skills Development) Aftercare Program, an intensive rehabilitation program for incarcerated youth being released back into the community. The program is meant to work in partnership with local probation departments to support overall case plan goals for each youth. The youth will also have the option of continuing long-term support once their probation period ends. The program is customizable to the youth's individualized needs and focuses on whole-person care. Extensive entrance interviews are required to determine youth suitability for the program and to assess individual needs.
The T.A.I.L.S. program covers many topics, equipping participants with the tools to navigate life's challenges and become positive contributors to society. From horse handling to mental health support, the program provides a comprehensive approach to healing and empowerment. Through initiatives like this, Wonder Wood Ranch is changing individual lives and shaping the future of Monterey County's youth and communities.
Wonder Wood Ranch has established partnerships with numerous youth programs across Monterey County, serving approximately 1,000 youth annually. Through these collaborations, Wonder Wood Ranch offers youth a platform to experience the healing power of equine therapy and gain essential life skills. This commitment aligns with broader efforts to address the needs of vulnerable youth populations and foster community resilience.
"Wonder Wood Ranch is an important resource in our community offering equine therapy and outdoor experiences to the most vulnerable youth in Salinas and across Monterey County. Their services are affordable and delivered with skill, love and care by a family invested in the well-being of their community. As Director of the Community Alliance for Safety and Peace I have trusted Wonder Wood Ranch with the gang impacted youth we work with and have made countless referrals from partner agencies.
As Chair of the Juvenile Justice Commission I hear first hand from Probation staff about how valued their visits into Juvenile Hall and our Youth Center are. There is something very special about the positive impact of horses on our youth and the trauma they carry."
—José A. Arreola, Community Safety Administrator, City of Salinas, Director, Community Alliance for Safety and Peace Chair, Juvenile Justice Commission
To learn more about Wonder Wood Ranch, please visit their website at www.wonderwoodranch.org and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
