Statements
Mission
Angel Heart Farm provides a safe and caring environment using equine assisted therapy for children and their families facing chronic and life threatening illnesses. We strive to improve their quality of life in conjunction with medical treatment.
Background
Tracy Kujawa, founder and Executive Director of AHF, a cancer survivor herself, was able to rise above her illness and offer the children and families suffering from chronic and life-threatening illnesses an opportunity to take some control in their own treatment and be proactive in their lives. Tracy developed AHF in 2000; the program received its non-profit status, 501 (c)(3), in 2001; and operations began in 2002. Ten horses, all riding equipment and helmets were donated. Over $900,000 has been given to AHF through grants and individual donations. Volunteers are screened and trained to assist with the day-to-day operations of the farm and further instructed to assist our children and families with riding, grooming and general horse preperation. AHF, through its Executive Director, Governing Board, and Trained Volunteers, has opened its arms and doors to children and families, offering services free of charge.
Impact
Angel Heart Farm Inc. (AHF) serves Middle Tennessee's needs for a place where children with chronic and life-threatening illnesses and their families can escape daily stress by spending time with horses and dogs in a relaxed and therapeutic setting. Tri Star Children's Hospital and Vanderbilt Children's Hospital draws children to Nashville from the entire Southwest. Studies have shown that pet therapy will improve a patient's mental health by decreasing stress and illness induced depression, thus increasing quality of life. Studies further show that physical activity increases muscular strength, tone, endurance and energy. Our goals are simple: Help kids be kids away from all the medical necessities and bring joy into their lives through horses and nature; allow families to reconnect in a peaceful and caring environment at no cost. To date, over 200 children and their families have experienced the peace and bond of equine assisted therapy through hands on experiences which include brushing, feeding and riding as well as competing in local and regional horse shows. During medical treatments a family has no idea when a child will be well enough to come to farm, so Angel Heart Farm lets them make their own schedule. We are here for them 24 hours a day seven days a week. If a child is too ill to come to the barn, we will bring their favorite pony to them. Because families are faced with a multitude of unforeseen medical expenses, day care, travel expenses and other expenses, there are no fees for the program. Families estimate spending over $10,000 out of pocket expenses due to a childhood illness. Angel Heart Farm feels blessed to serve these families with a program that is free to them at a time when every penny counts. Angel Heart Farm operates year round with referrals coming from medical and social work professionals, as well as, other foundations such as The American Cancer Society, Make a Wish, Dream-makers, Cancer Free Kids, Jays Hope Foundation and several other organizations.
Needs
Angel Heart Farm is seeking a funding towards our capital campaign to be dept free foundation. With the build of our indoor riding arena on our farm. We are currently seeking $225,000 through grants and public and private foundations . This arena has allowed us to serve children and families year round even during inclement weather. Angel Heart Farm is seeking new board members to be added to our team and build on the strengths and knowledge they will contribute to AHF.
CEO Statement
AHF provides three important services that are not included in any other Middle Tennessee equine therapy program. 1. AHF is the only program specifically serving children with chronic and life-threatening illnesses. 2. AHF encourages family participation at the program, thereby offering animal assisted therapy to the whole family. 3. AHF offers child-centered scheduling, a necessary accommodation for these children due to their intensive treatment regimens. 4. The extent of the children's activities include petting, grooming, bathing, feeding, bridling, and saddling, and riding. Riding involves not only moving the horse forward, but various exercises designed to give the child confidence and poise as well as enhancing their fine and gross motor control.
Service Categories |
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| Primary Category: | Health Care - Rehabilitative Care |
| Secondary Category: | Health Care - Patient & Family Support |
| Tertiary Category: | Education - |
Areas Served
Angel Heart Farm serves families from Georgia, Alabama and other southern states. We are located in Middle Tennessee and serve many families from this area.
| TN - Williamson |
| TN |
| TN - Davidson |
| TN - Wilson |
| TN - Dickson |
| TN - Sumner |
