Our Sponsors & Contributors

• • Adams Communication Construction (763) 444-6725
• • Aluna Group, Inc. (web & graphic design, advertising) www.alunadesign.com
• • Earl Anderson, Stanchfield
• • Anderson-Koalska Finance (Investment & Retirement Planning) gkoalska@comcast.net
• • Build-a-Bear Workshop Bear Hugs Foundation www.buildabear.com

 

• • Canterbury Park www.canterburypark.com
• • Cindy and Deb Colmer
• • Creative Marketing Concepts www.creativemk.com
• • East Central Dairy Supply
• • Elliot's Paint
• • Good's Repair, Hinckley (320) 384-7570; 24-hr. road service, truck body repair and painting, tires, towing
• • Greg Hanson Restorations (general carpentry, remodeling) (651) 335-9230
• • Hinckley Flames Snowmobile Club
• • Herzog’s Trailer Sales and Tack, Brook Park www.herzogstrailersales.com
• • Kanabec County Soil & Conservation
• • Mark Kitchenmaster
• • Lee Homes Inc. www.leehomesinc.net
• • LovePower Music & Miracles Ministries www.lovepowerministries.org
• • Lowry Hill Fund of the Minneapolis Foundation, Jim Steiner
• • Bunny Markford
• • Midwest Custom Processing, Baldwin, WI - Jerry & Paula Price
• • Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe www.millelacsojibwe.org
• • Chris & Lori Moore, Carbondale, IL
• • Nelson's Market, Mora, MN www.nelsonsmarket.com
• • North Branch Printing, Jon Obar, (651) 674-4065
• • Ponderosa Sawmill, Randy Michel, Sandstone, MN (320) 245-0112
• • Ramsey County Fair, Joe Fox
• • Rebuild Academy (graphic arts/T-shirts, hats) Jerry Frick (763) 717-0063, Blaine, MN www.rebuildsources.com
• • Tim Samek
• • Todd & Anne Schilling
• • Bruce & Paula Selvig (outdoor arena)
• • Rick & Connie Shand
• • Barb & Josh Stone (Sahara & Orion/horses)
• • Scott Wendeael
• • Zuercher Well Drilling & Repair (651) 674-5939

Our Partners

• • Crisis Connection www.crisis.org or email Teresa at: teresa@crisis.org
• • EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) www.eagala.org
• • People Against Meth (P.A.M.), Cambridge, MN www.peopleagainstmeth.com
• • River City Recovery Ministries www.rivercityhome.com
• • Woodland Hills Church, Maplewood, MN www.whchurch.org
• • Wrangler Jeans & VF Corporation www.WranglerWeb@vfc.com

JUNE TESTIMONIES

Sharon Endicott, M.A., Counselor
Therapeutic Services Agency, Inc. – Pine City, MN

I am happy to recommend Changing Gaits, an equine therapy program, to agencies who work with children. I currently have two clients who are participants in the program and they are very pleased with the therapy. They are always excited to spend time with the horses and are eager to attend each session.

Guy Kaufman is a caring person who personally supervises the clients, with their safety and confidentiality as priorities. He is non-judgmental and openly expresses his concern for the kids and their well being, making them feel secure enough they can comfortably work on the issues that brought them to the program.

I believe the program can especially help kids who have not responded to traditional therapy programs, and recommend Changing Gaits without qualification.

Sarah Legband, Dean of Teen Girls
Minnesota Teen Challenge

From my experience of working with Changing Gaits, I have been very pleased with the way they facilitate team building activities. Both our staff and our students have used Changing Gaits as a resource for working through group dynamics, building group unity, and identifying strengths and weaknesses of our own personally. I have been very impressed with the staff there and how they have worked with our staff and our girls in the program.

Changing Gaits does a great job of using an outside perspective to help shine the light on personalities, perspectives, and how we all work together as a group that maybe we haven’t recognized before. As a staff, I feel we have bonded more as a group and gained much more respect for one another and each part that we play in the group. With the teens, I feel that it’s helped them take their eyes off of themselves and begin to learn what it means to work as a team and help build self-worth as each one of them is important.

I’m thankful for the services Changing Gaits has provided us as a team, and I would recommend anyone who wants to build up unity and communication among their team, to utilize this great resource.

Laurie Schmidt

Crossroads Learning Center - Sandstone, MN

As a teacher of students classified as at-risk, it's a formidable task to accurately express the depth of gratitude I have for the incredible day you provided for my students on Friday, May 16. Of course, I must begin with a heart-felt thank you for your genuine hospitality; for feeding a group of hungry teenagers, for offering up your ranch to them, and for welcoming them so openly. Those acts of generosity were huge to me and my group of diverse young people, nervous and unsure of what to expect as we were. You and your team are talented programmers, truly in touch with providing a comfortable atmosphere to "stretch and grow" for a variety of personalities.

Throughout the day, you offered us a myriad of opportunities for valuable personal lessons that will be remembered for quite some time. The activities you put the group through challenged each one to dig deep and explore both the individual strengths and weaknesses that make them unique. As I watched them work with the horses and one other, I was struck by the poetic metaphor of the entire experience.

The student's attempts to successfully complete the challenges were marked by the unsureness of tiny baby steps. They were lost in this new environment, wanting to "be good", to do what was expected, but completely stymied as to how to begin in this new and unfamiliar environment, their normal patterns of dealing with challenges were useless and ineffective. Most, if not all, had never been that close to that a horse. They had no idea how to control this oversized beast, let alone to accomplish a goal without speaking or bribing. They learned they had to rely on each other and explore the benefits of teamwork. This was an amazing physical representation of their decision to reconsider their lifestyle choices.

As the exercises progressed, the group had to face the idea that perhaps some of their patterns of dealing with the world might be stumbling blocks instead of road maps. When habits of self-medicating, bullying, or withdrawing to get by were not options, each teen had to mentally regroup. In the course of the day, they learned to open their eyes to new possibilities, to believe in themselves and the importance of trusting others -- animal as well as human. They began to understand that tools for success are not out of their grasp, allusive and hidden by a society that considers them a burden. Instead, the tools they need and so desperately want are all around, in all shapes and sizes, just waiting to be discovered.

By the end of our time, they were like little children, eager to play, basking in the attention of horses and staff, dragging their feet at the inevitable need to leave. They had experienced the unfamiliar realization that they had worth! Each felt free, confident and useful. On the ride back to school, they eagerly chatted about how much they wanted to come back. As one young man put it, "Heck yeah! I can stay clean if it means I could come back and volunteer!"

Thank you, Changing Gaits. Your patient guidance and exposure to "Good Orderly Direction" gave my group a belief in the possibility of change. In the disguise of a horse, you offered them something they rarely touch in their daily lives -- hope. You have planted some invaluable seeds. I look forward to a long and successful connection.

Denise Ganz, Career Center Coordinator
Becky Fladebo, Career Center Assistant
Mora High School Career Center - June 2008

As we are winding up the school year, I would like to thank you for providing an opportunity for our students to job shadow, intern and/or work with you throughout the year.

It has been a great learning experience for all those students that participated. Nothing can compare with hands-on learning and interaction in a real business setting.

Thanks just doesn't cover all the positive impact you make for kids! We really appreciate your willingness to mentor our students and hope this will be a continuing working relationship again next year.

PAST TESTIMONIES

Katie’s Testimony

Guy,

How can I put this?  You have taught me a lot.  You have taught me that I can trust people again, how to trust, and how to trust God.  You have shown me what path I should take, and I’ve chosen to walk it.  You know that I’m almost 17 years old, and I love you as a dad that I never had.…

My faith is getting stronger every day and I have you to thank.  I’m not forgetting about Cheryl, she is another person that I can thank for my changes, in my life.  I thank you guys a lot for all the effort and love that you’ve shown me.  Now I can show the same love and effort to other people.  I’m ready to change my life, get off the road that I’m on and onto the Lord’s path of rightness.  My mom and me are getting along better.  I thank you guys so much for showing me the way of the Lord.

Katie

Sarah’s Testimony

After being sexually abused, Sarah’s life had changed. She became a person she didn’t recognize, a person she didn’t even like. The following words are excerpts taken from Sarah’s own testimony:

“I hated myself for being so out of control. There was nothing left for me and I knew that this was the intolerable pain that would push me over the edge. I drove to the train tracks and fantasized about leaping in front of the train’s path….

I suffered from post traumatic stress and became deeply involved in an unhealthy, co-dependent relationship with a drug addict/alcoholic. I was hardly concerned for my virtue and I was usually detached from my emotions. What little respect I still had for my body, only left me feeling guilty and panic-stricken because of what I was giving away physically. I felt dirty and taken advantage of. I thought I was a whore yet I didn't know how to say "no." I developed an eating disorder. The obsession wrapped itself around me instantly.

With much fear, I made a call to a complete stranger and talked about my interest in visiting Changing Gaits to see what the program was all about. I took an impulsive weekend trip up to Minnesota to meet Guy and watch a demonstration on how horses can be used as a therapy tool. I was fascinated! Changing Gaits was like a breath of fresh air. Despite all my inner turmoil, I could breathe there. There was a certain peace and serenity about the place that made me feel invited and at home. Even during a time when I had no concept of God, I could sense that this was a place where miracles were created. Guy welcomed me with a light, loving heart and a warm, accepting smile.

I came to Changing Gaits knowing everything about horses, yet very little about myself. During my first session, I shared my story about being sexually abused. Moments later, I was given the task to elect my therapy horse. To my astonishment, I chose the only female horse in a pasture full of geldings. I favored a mare unintentionally and claimed that I selected her because I felt she was “safe”. Akita, a beautiful buckskin mare, had also been abused. Through Akita, Guy and Cheryl could see my strengths and my weaknesses. I began using the horses to practice setting healthy boundaries. I was able to tell Orion “NO” and physically move away from him when he invaded my personal space. I practiced telling Akita, Cinnamon, and a miniature horse named Ginger that I deserve love and respect. Eventually, I was able to tell Guy and Cheryl too that I deserve love and respect.

Guy told me that so long as I am still alive there is still hope. Even though I may feel that I am too far gone to pull myself back up, so long as I’m still breathing, God has a reason for it. I have become more confident in myself and have been assertive during situations I would have lost my voice during in the past. Guy Kaufman convinced me that I have this disease for a reason; to help other people who may be struggling as well. I hope to be able to pass on what Guy has taught me.

There is no greater gift which I could have received and Guy asked for nothing in return. Changing Gaits is a miracle from God.”

Mary Pat Dunlap
Juvenile Probation Supervisor, Ramsey County - March 2008

I am a juvenile probation supervisor, and work with Juvenile Substance Abuse Court in Ramsey County. We started having our clients attend Changing Gaits several weeks ago. All of our clients have significant drug and/or alcohol abuse issues. They range in age from 15-17, and many have significant criminal histories. Right now, all of our participants are boys. We have made two trips so far, with four more to come.

The first group was interesting, because the guys were both nervous and reluctant to participate (and I really didn’t know what to expect). After an overview of the program and safety, they were told to get their tools - halter and lead rope - and go catch a horse. It was both amusing and touching to watch these tough guys try to accomplish this task. They all did it, all in their own ways, mastering their own fears. During the process, the staff were talking to them and encouraging them. Then, the young men walked back to the barn with their horses, all a little prouder, more confident, and having learned something about themselves.

The program has an immediate impact on the participants, and on observers as well. It is a powerful way to help people see how their emotions and behaviors impact their lives. I’m excited we’ve had the opportunity to participate in Changing Gaits.

Jody Mork
Unit Supervisor, Clinical Coordinator/Bar None Residential Treatment Center, Anoka, MN

“Changing Gaits has truly impacted the Sunrise Unit in many ways. Residents enjoy going to Changing Gaits to learn about themselves and what it is like to work together as a team. Changing Gaits has increased self-esteem in many residents and given them the courage and strength to move forward in their lives. The residents truly benefit from the program. Some of their comments include, ‘I learned to work on treatment’ ‘I learned to look at myself for things I am doing’ ‘Learned how to ask for help’ ‘It makes you feel better about yourself by talking about your feelings to other people....it makes me feel better about myself’.”

Jessica, June 2007

“Shane is my beautiful, lost 10-year-old. On the outside and most of the time at school and in his studies, Shane appears perfect. It’s when he is asked to comply with the rules of the world or to make an appropriate choice that he can’t. Shane has always been challenging his “official diagnosis” of ADHD/ODD/SED---a lot of letters for one little boy! Often Shane is withdrawn, empty, it seems nothing matters to him, but that is the tuff guy surface; he tries so hard to deal with the everyday demands of life that after awhile he just explodes with so much anger and rage. He has few friends and is very much the outsider.

My family’s experience at Changing Gaits started in June 2007 with six words, “Mommy, maybe that would help me.” Those words from a child with (five) years of therapy who never voices a need for help, stopped me in my tracks. All I heard was, “For more information, go to the WCCO Web site.....” I went to bed that night knowing that no matter what it took, I was going to see if “something with horses” could reach a child that has been unreachable for years, and growing more violent and angry. The next day I clicked on the Web site to Changing Gaits and a new relationship with my son and our family. Within a week, Shane and I were at the ranch with an amazing man, Guy Kaufman, and this amazing idea about equine therapy and kids. I knew in the first hour we were there that we had FINALLY found someplace that had the possibility of a breakthrough and give my son and society some hope in and for his life. He went from all of his issues, to "maybe that would help me", to a child that is using his coping skills, taking in what he is learning and using it. It's not perfect, but it’s more progress then I have seen. Since starting Changing Gaits, we have had only one issue where we had to call the crisis team; he no longer destroys his room, he is much more respectful, and he has a confidence about him that I have never seen. The difference is day and night. Changing Gaits is a very committed program and you have to put in a lot of effort as a family, but it all pays off.”

NOTE: Because this therapy is not covered by the insurance industry and Shane’s family cannot afford to pay the full amount for his sessions, Shane decided to have a lemonade stand at the trailer court where he lives; this turned into a full-blown bake sale with the help of friends and neighbors during a hot, hot week in July. Shane collected $200 to bring to Guy at his next session; the two of them then took a trip to the local feed store and purchased $200 worth of grain---enough for two months of feed for the horses. Shane, you are our hero!!

A Letter From Volunteers of America® Minnesota

Shane's Testimony

When I arrived at Changing Gaits I was out of options and depressed.  I had tried so many times to get off drugs and alcohol with limited success.  As a matter of fact this would make my eighth or ninth treatment attempt, not to mention two years in a Texas Prison as a result of four DWI convictions.  Nothing seemed to help for long.  I had been to countless meetings, church and self help groups.  I desperately wanted to change my life, again.  My marriage was crumbling and so was I.  My wife’s’ last ditch effort to salvage our family was an idea for me to go to Minnesota to a facility called Changing Gaits.  When I heard about the program I thought “there’s no way this could work,” however I boarded a plane from Texas and thought I had nothing to lose.  I had been able to manipulate everything and everyone in my life up to that point, including counselors and other treatment programs.  Upon arrival at Changing Gaits, I was greeted by Guy Kaufman who immediately embraced me and put me at ease.  The moment I stepped out of the car I felt the presence of God and unconditional love.  Guy led me through several sessions over the next thirty days and I realized that all along my problem were not drugs and alcohol, but rather the way I dealt with life.  I came to a turning point and Guy and Shadow were there to guide me through a gauntlet of emotions with understanding, patience and love.  I learned that unlike people, you can not manipulate a horse; therefore you are forced to deal with your problems.  I liken my time at Changing Gaits as being in a spiritual incubator. 

Now, I have my wife and three happy kids, a great job, I just bought a new house and I have the self respect that I lacked for so long.  If anyone can relate to anything I have said up to this point and feel like your life is out of control, do yourself and everyone else in your life a favor and try equine therapy and Changing Gaits.  If I would not have tried this, I would probably be dead or in prison.  Thank you, Guy and Changing Gaits.  I’ll never be able to repay you for giving me my life back.  You are a Godsend.  I’ll always love you guys.

Sincerely,

Shane

Reconnecting Youth

“The Executive Director of Temporary Living Center, Jacque Robinson, and I had a great time in our meeting with you...in one of the exercises we saw how important sponsorship was and also noticed and understood more about our own personal lives...It became in that moment even more clear what the program could do for our clients and their relationships with their families.” (Jennifer, TLC administrator and financial manager).

"Changing Gaits was a great experience for the students in my classes (with Reconnect Youth). They learned about the struggles they experience from a whole new perspective and how to begin to overcome those struggles while using the horses as a tool. Everyone walked away with something new they could apply to their life at home. They loved it and are excited to go back again." Nicole Sheldon, Counselor, Mora High School.

“I just wanted to drop a line regarding a recent visit I had with some freinds of mine to Changing Gaits. A very troubled, angry and hard young man was up with me this past Sunday. I couldn't believe how much his entire demeanor changed around the horses. He has not stopped talking about Guy and the horses since his experience....Guy you are AWESOME and have made a HUGE impact this young mans life in an hours time. He has, since our visit, repeated EVERY word you said to him and hasn't stopped retelling this story to every one of his friends...and others who will listen. He has offered up his services to you if you can find time and stuff for him to do around the ranch. Maybe he can come up next spring for the clean up??? Or before school starts even???”

Other Testimonials

”If I can’t see you, I can always see the person I was when I was out their…!”

“I very much appreciate the help and the words of wisdom that you gave me.”

“That afternoon spent with you and the horses, and the stories you shared…is forever etched in my memory as just a small sample of what it’s going to be like in heaven…The whole way home we just couldn’t stop talking about how loved we felt!”

“I can’t thank you enough for all that you and your team did. You are all truly angels of God!”

Horses help people find their own answers, to solve a problem themselves… The very makeup of horses makes them effective treatment partners. For one thing, their size and power make them intimidating to many people…..horse-related exercises help clients learn to solve their own problems or discover their own truths. (EAGALA co-founder Lynn Thomas)

“Horses are one of the world’s best-kept secrets. We come to them tired, discouraged, ill, and confused; they send us home refreshed, renewed and full of life and hope for tomorrow. By just being themselves, they can bring an emotional and mental healing that other forms of therapy cannot.” (Resa Nilson, BS, Animal Science, Univ. of Vermont, Executive Director of ChAMP, South Hero, VT, Certified NARHA instructor)

The skills of communication are the same, whether you are relating to person or equine …Horses will not hesitate to challenge us if what we’re doing is not clear to them .”

Angel Poem

Angel of Serenity

Jennifer Robinson – June 13, 2006

And God made life more joyous, more fulfilling, and more authentic with one gift, the gift of a son.

He said, “This boy shall live life to its fullest and love unconditionally. He shall smile with happiness and cry with sorrow. He shall hurt and still have faith. He shall fall and then rise even higher.”

Then God said, “This boy is my son, and with my son I give the gifts of heart, compassion, comfort, change and serenity. He shall touch the hearts of all who cross his path and guide those in search of themselves.”

And then God made you and a couple of horses. And forever you will be God’s son. And forever will you spread his love whether they believe it or not. And for that you will forever be his messenger and son, and to them you will forever be a friend and a leader. And that makes you God’s greatest son ever, his Angel of Serenity.

Statistics

Eap-outcome study.doc
Final research report.doc
Magic of Horses.doc
Outcome Study.doc
Research Linda Myers statistics recidivism.doc
Research The Counselor 1997.doc
Subject Variables & EAGALA.doc
Woodbury article.doc