Exploring along the stream, picking apples, collecting pinecones, spinning and weaving fiber from llamas and goats to make headbands and bracelets—all of these activities are rare and cherished opportunities for children with challenges.

Importantly, WHRF is the only organization that provides a sanctuary where animals that were born with physical differences or have come from difficult circumstances can interact with children and others with special needs—participating in therapeutic animal-assisted and equine-facilitated programs.

Interaction with special animals is a powerful healing experience for special needs children.  The Ranch animals provide unconditional love and comfort to all guests and visitors, regardless of that individual’s challenges. Unlike humans who often experience an adjustment period when encountering people with physical differences such as severe scarring, facial or limb deformities or the visible effects of medical treatments or surgeries, animals greet all they encounter with a ready acceptance. Many visitors have commented that the Ranch animals seem to sense when a guest has special needs and seek to comfort them.

Often children who attend camps and retreats at Whispering Hope Ranch have never before experienced nature in a forest or interacted with exotic animals. Memory books filled with photos of their new human and animal friends are treasured by these kids, many of whom have limited life spans.