Our Programs

Mission Statement

• Building Character…
• Restoring Hope…
• Empowering Relationships…

 

Vision Statement

• Making a difference in the lives of Valley Youth… connecting the needs of equine with the undiscovered potential in every child and youth.

 

Core Values

• We value a safe environment where youth can discover & learn.
• We value relationships.
• We value hard work & reward.
• We value positive attitudes.

 

Valley Trotters Youth Ranch

Valley Trotters Youth Ranch is located in the near Northwest side of McAllen, Texas. We are open by appointment January thru December to serve the families of the Rio Grande Valley. VTYR is a 501 (c) 3 public charity recognized by the State of Texas & Internal Revenue Service as a non-profit organization created to benefit youth, strengthen families and rehabilitate horses. It is our desire to provide a safe environment where today’s youth can find acceptance, build trust, learn life skills, and build relationships. VTYR relies exclusively on donations and contributions to fund its operation. All activities and services described below are offered to area youth and families without an established fee.

 

Our Riding Program

In addition to our Equine rescue program VTYR also offers a practical hands-on method of learning to safely ride a horse. After an interview with the student, our staff will tailor a riding program designed to maximize the riding experience for the student. Our program is unique in that it brings together one rider/one horse/one instructor. Most of our kids respond favorably to this style of riding instruction, reporting an increased level of personal confidence, renewed optimism and assurance that someone really does love them, unconditionally.

 

Our Equine Rescue Program

Those desiring to volunteer in our rescue program have the opportunity to learn and practice the science skills necessary to care for mild -to- moderately abused or mistreated horses. While we can not provide a clinical environment or direct in-house veterinary care we can and do supply a comfortable setting and excellent care for our angels in horse hair while they recover. Throughout the restoration process our goal is to return each horse to its useful and beneficial state. The children, youth and families of the Valley Trotters Youth Ranch develop broad expertise when caring for the recovering horses including, but not limited to; proper equine nutrition, disease prevention, wound care, parasite control, grooming techniques, rehabilitation methods and conditioning of the equine mind and body. Many horses recover completely and can be placed into service here at the ranch. After careful and complete evaluation by the ranch staff some horses are selected to be trained for use in our riding program. Horses that are not suited for our riding program are offered to a good home under mutual adoption terms.