A Goodyear equine nonprofit known for using horsemanship to build community and well-being is launching a new program for older adults, inviting seniors to spend a morning on the farm learning from, and relaxing with, horses.
The Barn will host its Senior Community Day 10-11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 8, at 642 N. 159th Ave. The event is open to anyone 65 and older and offers a quiet, low-pressure environment to meet the farm’s horses, explore equine-assisted activities or simply enjoy the outdoors. Admission is $10, and caregivers may attend free. Registration is available by emailing salaclair@gmail.com.
The senior program builds on The Barn’s long-standing focus on connection and accessibility. Founded in 2013 by Elizabeth Trier, the nonprofit offers a wide range of services, from adaptive and traditional riding lessons to Horse-Powered Reading and community service programs for students with special needs.
“If it has something to do with horses, we probably do it,” Trier said. “What truly makes this place work is the community that forms here. People stay after their sessions just to talk. That connection matters.”
Much of the barn’s non-riding instruction is led by Equine-Assisted Learning Facilitator Steph LaClair, who also runs a complimentary six-week horsemanship program for veterans. LaClair said EAL uses structured activities with horses to teach communication, trust-building and emotional awareness.
“Equine-Assisted Learning is not therapy,” she said. “It invites individuals to participate in activities centered around horses to gain insight about themselves and increase positive thoughts and behaviors.”
LaClair said horses respond directly to a person’s internal state, mirroring anxiety, calmness or confidence, which often provides immediate clarity for participants navigating everyday challenges.
“You don’t get better on your own,” she said. “You get better by connecting, whether that’s with people or with our horses.”
More information about The Barn and its programs is available at thebarnaz.com.
James Goldmeer Reporter | Goodyear & Litchfield Park
Meet James James Goldmeer joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in July 2024, starting their career as a reporter in Goodyear and Litchfield Park.
Community: James grew up in the West Valley, calling Avondale home and going to school in Glendale and Peoria. Returning to the community after university, James plans to get involved in everything arts and culture, and civil rights.
Education: Northern Arizona University a bachelor's degree in Journalism, a certificate in Professional Communications, with a minor in English.
Random Fact: James spent half a year as an intern for the Arizona House of Representatives communication team, working with legislators to inform the public through press releases and social media.
Hobbies: James collects postcards and old books, reads memoirs and attends local jazz shows.
By 
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here