Horsemanship Sessions

Destiny Youth Ranch will be providing individual sessions for boys and girls aged 7-18 & adults are invited to join us!
 
We will provide one horse and one mentor for one child or teen for a 45-60 minute session at the ranch. Our sessions are by appointment only on a first come, first serve basis. You can call us at: #712-473-2270 or use our contact form to make an appointment. We will take appointments starting the 15th of the month prior to the month you would like to attend a session.

Our Horsemanship Sessions are absolutely free of charge. The only requirement for children & adults is that they have an open heart and want to attend.

FAQ's for Parents

How and when do I schedule my children for a Horsemanship Session?  
Our season opens in May and runs until November 1st. Scheduling for May begins on the 15th of April or the next day the ranch is open. You'll need to contact our office to schedule with us at that time. On May 15th or our next business day, we start scheduling for June and we continue this pattern every month during our open season.

Who needs a completed release form to be on ranch grounds?
Everyone! Because of the unpredictable nature of horses and ranch life, you and each person you bring is required to have our current release form on file or completed first thing on arrival. Release forms must be renewed at the start of every year. Our insurance dictates that anyone who does not have a current/complete release form cannot be allowed involvement in our activities and programs.

Do I need to stay on the property during my child or teen’s session?
Yes. Though parents are free to rest at the picnic tables, rest in the barn or our bunkhouse on cold days or stay in their car on our property, we require that parents stay on the property during their child’s session.

Though we request that you be on the property during your child’s sessions, we understand that you may be out of sight from the riding arena if you have gone to wait in your car in the parking area. In this circumstance, we ask that you please let your child's mentor know so we can locate you quickly in case of an emergency. It is also helpful to let your child know where you are as well.

Where do I park when I come to the ranch?
For the safety of the children and horses, we request that parents and visitors park in designated parking areas. Please drive slowly and be sure to keep your eyes open for children and animals as well as stay prepared to wait as leaders move horses from the path of your vehicle.

Will my child always ride during his or her session?
There may be times when your child will not ride during his or her session.  According to the staff member's discretion or the child’s wishes, they may take part in any number of alternate activities during their session, including ranch chores, crafts, games, etc.  

Destiny Youth Ranch aims to offer mentorship, ranch-style activities, healthy friendships and horse rehabilitation involvement free of charge to youth in our community.  Our riding lessons are a conduit towards these goals. Although we aspire to help your child become a safe rider who understands and cares for horses, our main goal is not to produce “accomplished” riders. If this is your hope, we would recommend scheduling your child for riding lessons at a traditional stable.

What should my child wear to Horsemanship sessions?
Our season opens in April and runs until November 1st. Due to the unpredictable weather in Northwest Iowa, we recommend paying close attention to the clothes your child wears to his/her session. Layers are a good idea for rapid weather changes.

    Required Attire:

• Long Pants
• Sturdy shoes with closed toes and closed heels or riding boots (We have some children & teens boots on hand to borrow if needed)
  A Helmet will be provided for all of our riders aged 7-18 as required by our insurance carrier and for the safety of all of our riders! It is optional for teens & adults aged 19 on up to wear a helmet, but it is encouraged for your safety.

    Remember:

• Water
• Sunscreen

    Here are a few additional suggestions for HOT weather:

• Shorts sleeves (no spaghetti straps)
• Hat (for sun protection – we supply helmets)
• Chapstick
• Snack

    Here are a few additional suggestions for COLD weather:

• Several layers of clothes (as the weather moderates you can help them shed layers)
• Warm Coat
• Gloves
• Knit Cap
• Warm socks
• Canister of a warm drink

What happens if something comes up and we cannot make it to a session?
We would appreciate a call at least 3 days in advance to allow us enough time to give another child from our waiting list an opportunity to adjust their schedule for that appointment. However, we understand unexpected schedule changes do occur last minute. If this is the case, please call the office as soon as possible.

If I live outside of your area, can my child come to ride as a one time experience?
We embrace all children from all places that desire to be here; however we feel that overall our work is most effective for children who are able to attend consistently over a long-term basis.

Can I bring my children’s friends to the ranch to play and watch while my child rides?
Your children’s friends are welcome to the ranch. However, you must bring a completed release form in their name to our offices before the child will be allowed to be involved in ANY activities at the ranch. Remember that their legal guardian MUST be the one to complete the form.   Please call our office if you have any questions about the release forms.  We will be happy to assist you.

While the visiting child is here, please be considerate of the children that are currently taking part in a horsemanship session by allowing the staff member's attention and guidance to be focused only on the child they are working with. As the adult bringing additional children, you are responsible for them during their visit.

Do you offer any additional meetings for families outside of your Horsemanship program?
Yes!  We are offering three girl's camps the second week-end of June, July & August of 2010. We are also offering a Women's Retreat May 1 & 2, 2010. We also plan to offer more times for fellowship in the near future! Please see our Calendar of Events for updates on ranch activities!!