Hope for Hooves has officially launched a new employment readiness initiative called Unbridled Abilities. This nine-week program provides neurodivergent adults with practical training in the workforce by using hands-on experience with horses. Participants gain exposure to essential workplace standards such as punctuality, teamwork, and task performance. The goal is to prepare individuals for success in traditional job roles through a grounded, task-oriented approach.
Founder Michelle Derrick emphasizes that the program relies on community relationships rather than standard grant funding. By working with the animals, participants learn to operate with a spirit of excellence. The organization intends to expand this training further by introducing a Barn Bucks system, which will allow participants to earn currency for their work and practice financial literacy skills at an on-site store.
For many participants, the benefits extend beyond vocational skills. Natalie McGillivary, a long-term volunteer at the organization, notes that working with the horses has provided significant mental health support. She reports improved social confidence and a clearer sense of self. The organization invites the community to support the program through donations of items for the store, such as water bottles, journals, and pens.
This initiative serves as a model for how non-traditional environments can provide effective job preparation. By focusing on consistent tasks and clear expectations, Hope for Hooves creates an environment where neurodivergent adults can build confidence and skills needed for the modern labor market. The program is currently open to those looking to gain real-world experience in a supported, faith-based setting.