About Hands & Hoofs
Founded on the Belief That Every Child Deserves Connection with Animals and Nature
At Hands & Hoofs, we believe that some of life’s most important lessons happen outside the classroom—in the quiet moments between a child and a gentle horse, in the laughter shared while creating art, and in the confidence that grows through hands-on learning with animals.
Our founders, Mary Georgis and Julie Schultz, had a simple but powerful vision: create a place where all children, regardless of family income, could experience the transformative power of connecting with horses and barnyard animals.
Our Mission
Hands & Hoofs offers free Equine and Animal Assisted Learning (EAAL) programs to youth and adults to promote deeper connection with the animals, each other, and themselves. The program incorporates art, music, social emotional learning, and inclusive practices through a fun and accepting outdoor experience.
What We Stand For
Every Child Included
We provide all our programs free of charge so that financial barriers never prevent a child from experiencing the magic of our ranch.
Authentic Learning
Through Equine and Animal Assisted Learning, children develop communication skills, self-awareness, and confidence that extends far beyond their time with us.
Community Connection
We're building a community where families, volunteers, and supporters come together to create meaningful experiences for children and adults.
Respect for Animals
We teach children to understand, respect, and care for living beings while forming lasting bonds with our many different animals.
Our Story
What started as a dream to share the healing power of horses has grown into a thriving program that has touched hundreds of children’s lives. Since our founding, we’ve remained committed to keeping our programs completely free, relying on the generosity of our community and the dedication of our volunteers.
Our 5-acre ranch in Wilton, California, provides the perfect setting for children to step away from screens and get outdoors, where they can experience the joy of working with horses, creating art, and building friendships that last.
Our Impact
Through our programs, children experience:
- Increased confidence and self-esteem through successful interactions with large animals
- Improved communication skills learned through horse behavior and groundwork
- Creative expression via animal-themed arts and crafts projects
- Respect for nature and understanding of animal care and needs
- New friendships formed through shared experiences and group activities
- Physical activity and outdoor engagement away from screen time
Meet Our Leadership Team
Rebecca Diddams
BOARD PRESIDENT
Jeanette Link
SECRETARY
April Sousa
TREASURER
Monica DaCosta
BOARD ADVISOR
Teresa Anderson
BOARD ADVISOR
Travis Baker
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Mary Georgis & Julie Schultz
CO-FOUNDERS
Our Ranch
Located on a 5-acre property in Wilton, California, our ranch is home to horses, mini horses, donkeys, goats, Sheep, and a Llama. The property includes a large barn area, several horse paddocks and arenas providing large outdoor space for camps and programs.
Looking Forward
We’re excited about expanding our reach through new programs including Barn Bees for returning campers, Little Campers for younger children, school field trips, and adult programs serving veterans and other community groups.
Our goal remains the same: to provide meaningful, transformative experiences that help people of all ages connect with animals, new friends, and themselves.
Visit Us
We’d love to welcome you to our ranch in Wilton, California. Whether you’re interested in registering your child for camp, volunteering, or simply learning more about our mission, we’re here to help.