Most of us have had some connection with animals and experienced the joy they bring to our lives, and studies have shown that human-animal interactions can influence our health and well-being by decreasing blood pressure and cortisol levels, improving mood, reducing stress, decreasing loneliness, and many other positive influences. Jasper Ridge Farm, located in Portola Valley, CA, offers a unique experience to children, veterans, students and other community members in need through therapeutic animal interactions. We see the joy we bring to our clients every day and want to share Blanca's story.

Ten-year-old Blanca and her family are living in an RV together, with the isolation of the pandemic taking an especially hard toll on them and, in particular, Blanca. With public spaces and parks closed during quarantine, she had to stay in the RV with her family all day. She experienced anxiety and loneliness that was concerning to her mother who then reached out to one of Jasper Ridge Farm’s partners: One Life Counseling who provides their clients the opportunity to visit with our animals as part of their therapy program.

After Blanca’s visits with Jasper Ridge Farm she was openly talking about how much love she had for the animals and how excited she was to touch them. She recalled the funny faces the horse made and said she felt calm and happy being with the animals.

Her mother says it was wonderful to have a chance to spend time with her children outside, doing an activity that got them out of the home so they could leave their struggles behind. “Jasper Ridge Farm has really helped Blanca with her behavior and loneliness,” said her mother. “She had a calmness after her visit that was really able to help her relax.” Blanca’s experience with our animals allowed her to feel a sense of freedom from some of the anxieties she was feeling, and to develop confidence through this unique and new experience in her life.

The benefits of animal companionship and interactions is clear and ever more important during these trying times. Blanca’s story is just one of many examples demonstrating the impact every single donation makes. Individual community support makes up the majority of our revenue, and we would be so excited to have you as a friend of the farm!

Each year generous gifts help in the following ways:

Helps veterans with PTSD or traumatic brain injury reduce anxiety and stress through therapeutic adaptive horseback riding.
Supports special needs and underserved children through horseback riding that promotes physical activity as well as confidence and social skills.
Provides youth, who may be experiencing anxiety, stress, and depression, a unique opportunity of calm, focus and mindfulness.
Brings comfort and joy to children with life-threatening illnesses, those experiencing the loss of a loved one, or who are living in shelters.
Offers unconditional love and acceptance when most needed, to women who are incarcerated, youth and adults with disabilities and seniors.

It is because of our wonderful community of supporters we are able to offer our programs and services free of charge. We are thankful for all of our friends, old and new, who have stepped in and helped put a smile on the face of so many people (and animals!) We all share the joy and beauty of this very special connection. Thank you.

Animals Healing People Annual Campaign

By Jasper Ridge Farm

Animals Healing People Annual Campaign

Team Members