Good Day Kansas – Equine Assisted Activities with Cindy Monts, Jeriah Holder, and Ellie Wiles

In this Good Day Kansas segment, the team at Saint Francis Ministries’ Salina West PRTF facility shares how equine assisted activities are making a powerful impact in the lives of youth in their care. Clinical Supervisor Cindy, along with equine specialists Jeriah and Ellie, explain that working with horses helps kids build healthier habits, emotional regulation, and trust. Many of the youth arrive struggling with social skills, patience, and self-confidence—challenges the structured, hands-on interaction with horses helps to address. Through daily tasks, games, and simply being around the animals, kids learn empathy, body language, coordination, and communication. Ellie, new to the program, brings fresh activities that further engage the kids and deepen their bond with the horses. The experience not only offers therapeutic benefits but also helps youth build confidence by accomplishing things they never thought possible—all with the help of a gentle, 1,500-pound partner. Equine assisted activities are one of many meaningful ways Saint Francis Ministries supports healing and growth for children and teens.