Tween girls, as well as their families, are often on the lookout for new ways to find motivation, encouragement, and mentorship. A new program is opening for tween girls to help them gain self-confidence and self-esteem and to learn boundaries.
Leeanne Gardner, founder of Unbridled Pathways (UnbridledPathways.org), is starting a new program for tween equine lovers. The plan is to collaborate with local ranches near middle schools to offer the equine-assisted mentoring program.
About Unbridled Pathways
Unbridled Pathways is a 501c3 organization based in Cave Creek. Its mission is to facilitate Equine Inspired Experiences for Individuals and Organizations (EIEIO), with the goal of bolstering confidence, fostering genuine connections, and nurturing communities, says Gardner.
All of the programs Gardner offers aim to provide transformative learning experiences and opportunities through connections with horses.
Unbridled Confidence for Tweens
The new program, Unbridled Confidence, is an innovative program designed to empower middle school-age girls through the connections between humans and horses.
For Gardner, this new program is essential for girls today. “The program focuses on personal growth, self-confidence, improved social skills, and emotional validation. Self-confidence plays a significant role in understanding boundaries and preventing bullying,” says Gardner.
The Role of Horses in Helping Tweens Succeed
Gardner, who has been surrounded by horses most of her life, says she wants young girls to have the opportunity to experience what she has through these equine connections.
“I have experienced first-hand the power of the horse-human connection,” Gardner explains. “As herd animals, horses epitomize a sense of presence, authenticity, and coherent relationships with one another, all with no judgment.”
For Gardner, the hope is to encourage the next generation of women and shift away from conditions where bullying is prevalent. “Several generations of children were raised on technology, and I feel the equine interactions will help shift the energies and create stronger future leaders, resulting in more cohesive communities.”
How Unbridled Confidence Works
This new program is based on 4BNU Tween Mentoring Program by Susan F. Moody, Certified Confidence Coach for Tweens and Teens. Moody implemented this mentoring program in the Phoenix area through partnerships with Big Brothers & Big Sisters, Mentorkids USA, Phoenix Youth At Risk, and others.
Gardner explains that, “Along with Liz Covert of TRRFCC Horsemanship, we will be adding in the powerful equine component for an added bonus and wisdom from the horses.”
Gardner explains that the program is not currently seeking individual applicants. Instead, she hopes to create collaborative relationships with local ranches and charity organizations.
“We are looking for local grants or donations from organizations that may want to be involved in offering this mentoring program for low or no cost to middle school girls and their families. For instance, $7500 would sponsor 12 students to participate in the 8-week program,” says Gardner.
Once the program for tween girls is established, Gardner has big plans for the future. “We would like to roll out a similar program for boys. We are also developing an equine mentoring program for elementary school kids focusing on reading and writing literacy and one for high schoolers focusing on leadership skills.”
Looking Forward to More Equine Programs
Before the program gets up and running, there are still things area residents can do to get involved and help build the program. Unbridled Pathways always accepts financial donations to bring equine programs to kids and adults alike. Gardner shares, “Your financial support allows us to find safe spaces and professionals to help us create memorable experiences with horses.”
In addition, Gardner encourages those who own horses to consider collaborating with her to offer more locations for the equine program across the Valley. Check the website for ways to get involved, volunteer, or donate financially.
Our programs aim to provide transformative learning experiences and opportunities through connections with horses.