Hunkapi Programs, an equine therapy farm located at 12051 N. 96th St., has been awarded a lead grant of $300,000 from the Gila River Indian Community to kick off the capital campaign it launched in October.

Earlier this year, Hunkapi Programs secured a permanent farm location in Scottsdale on the Cactus Corridor. The 10-acre property is now home to 35 retired and rescued horses, two donkeys, two Holstein cows, two potbelly pigs, a flock of chickens and a pack of rescued farm dogs that are integrated into a variety of therapeutic services.

“We are humbled to have received this grant that will allow us to continue sharing the healing powers of our horses and animals with the community,” said Terra Schaad, founder of Hunkapi Programs. “None of this would be possible without these generous donations. We are so thankful.”

The relationship between Hunkapi Programs and the Gila River Indian Community is long-standing. Gila River has partnered with Hunkapi for decades on efforts ranging from treating ALS patients to providing funding for first responder programs offered at the farm.

The Gila River Indian Community is one of only two tribes to provide money for a capital campaign outside of the reservation.

“We are proud of the relationship we have with Terra and Hunkapi Programs,” said Cheryl Pablo, the tribe’s program administrator for the GRIC Office of Special funding. “This grant will allow them to continue the life-changing work they do on the farm every day.”

Hunkapi provides equine-assisted psychotherapy, therapeutic riding and equine-assisted life skills. Each week, Hunkapi serves between 250-300 clients and provides opportunities for 75-100 volunteers.

Visit Hunkapi.org.