When I think of Narrow Gate Horse Ranch, it takes me back to their early days. My kiddos were some of the first to experience the program.

Matt and I were foster parents back beginning in 2017 through 2020 and had three sweet kiddos who came to live with us. In their young lives, they had dealt with a lot and didn't always know how to express those big feelings in the real world. 

When we signed up with Narrow Gate we weren't sure what to expect but were willing to give it a shot to help our kids. 

Here is what we discovered.

Kids can talk about hurts they have experienced when they are helping care for the horses. They might notice a spot that had a wound and BAM a door opens to talk about ways we too can be hurt. Maybe looking deep into a horse’s eyes a child connects and sees a friend. 

The kids were able to talk about where the horses came from. Recognizing that the horses also were not likely with their original family allowed empathy from the kids. Being able to talk about the horses having a safe place to be was so important. 
Through the stories of each horse the kids could co-regulate with the horses. Sharing their feelings and taking in the calm the horses offer in return.

Early on when volunteers were not as plentiful we stepped aside and allowed others to try out the program. It has always held a special spot in our hearts. 


Today, as I look back,  here is what we know now. 

Trauma doesn't magically disappear. 

It is with you for the long haul. Sure it isn't at the forefront of your constant thoughts but that filter it creates is how you view the world.

The trauma and each step after is part of your testimony. So each stage of life as the kids have grown we have had to deal with new emotions that have come up from what they have walked through. We are always guiding them back to how God can make what was meant to harm them into something good.


These kids, just like the horses, have something to offer and ways to heal that are unique. Each child who encounters the horses at Narrow Gate has an opportunity to use all their senses to engage and make new memories while developing healing strategies. 

And let's face it, finding calm in a storm is a blessing! 

-Shelley Bourff, parent