About Us

ABOUT US AND OUR PHILOSOPHY

Jesse’s Place is an equine and canine assisted educational supportive service. While meaningful healing and personal growth often occur through participation in our programs, Jesse’s Place is not a psychotherapy program.

A PhD level licensed mental health therapist skilled in trauma issues is available on staff by participant choice for adult clients who wish to engage in traditional therapy in addition to working in the equine-canine program. Families of child participants who desire traditional therapy services may be referred to a licensed child therapist if they are not already working with one.  This ensures that all clinical mental health needs are addressed by appropriately licensed professionals. Research shows that there are powerful results in the healing journey of both children and adults in combining work with horses, canines and nature in a safe therapeutic relationship and often far more effective than traditional therapy though that can also be useful to some.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND

Jesse’ Place Foundation was founded by Sarah Hayes, who brings extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, equine education, and trauma informed care.  Sarah previously spent 14 years operating a successful equine assisted educational program that utilized these same rescue horses to support individuals who had experienced trauma.

Through years of fostering and raising remarkable foster children, Sarah gained first hand understanding of the systemic challenges, disruptions, and emotional burdens that foster children often face.  Jesse’s Place is named in honor of one of her foster children, whose life deeply influenced the vision for this organization.

This realization inspired Sarah to establish a new nonprofit in Delaware that would support foster children while also welcoming any child or adult impacted by trauma. Today, Jesse’s Place serves individuals of all ages in a safe, experiential learning environment grounded in compassion, respect, and growth.

Although Sarah holds a special place in her heart for children in foster care or those who have aged out of the system, Jesse’s Place remains a haven for anyone seeking healing, confidence, and connection in a supportive, beautiful and peaceful farm.