Where Horses Heal, and Purpose Begins
A nonprofit ranch where horses heal and purpose begins through equine-assisted programs.
OUR MISSION
Joy for Life exists to help children, adults, and veterans living with trauma, PTSD, and cognitive challenges rediscover confidence, structure, and belonging through equine-assisted programs. Our mission is to create a place where purpose is rebuilt through care, responsibility, and connection — where the partnership between human and horse becomes a path to healing, strength, and renewed hope.
Meet Peter Ellis
Former King’s Guard & British Army
Director of Ranch, Program & Development
Internationally recognized for his service in the King’s Guard and his viral acts of kindness, Peter Ellis brings unmatched compassion, horsemanship, and heart to Joy for Life.
He leads the daily operations of our ranch, trains our therapy horses, and works one-on-one with participants—helping each one rise with structure, purpose, and dignity.
Our Vision
Equine-Assisted Programs
Relationship-based, experiential growth through purposeful connection with horses — where confidence, patience, and trust are rebuilt through action, not theory.
Purposeful Ranch Work
Meaningful roles and structured responsibilities that help participants build discipline, pride, and tangible life skills while contributing to the daily rhythm of the ranch.
Life Skills & Mentorship
Guidance from mentors, volunteers, and licensed clinicians who support emotional growth, mental wellness, and accountability — ensuring every participant has a pathway forward.
Structure, Accountability & Belonging
Daily routines, shared goals, and an authentic sense of community that provide stability and connection — a place where everyone has a role, and every role has meaning.
We believe that lasting change is built through purpose, structure, and belonging. Our vision is a community where horses and humans work side by side — restoring dignity, discipline, and hope through shared responsibility.
WHY HORSES
Horses reflect the truth within us. They respond not to status or words, but to calm intention, consistency, and respect — qualities that many of our participants are working to rebuild. Their honesty cuts through fear, anxiety, and self-doubt, allowing people to see themselves clearly, sometimes for the first time.
Horses don’t judge, label, or lie. They reflect truth — and in that reflection, people find themselves again.
At Joy for Life, the horse becomes an honest partner in rebuilding strength, stability, and emotional regulation. Children, adults, and veterans learn to slow their breathing, steady their presence, and communicate with intention — all by working alongside an animal that responds only to authenticity.
Every task, from grooming and groundwork to leading a horse calmly through the arena, demands attention, patience, and responsibility. As participants learn to guide a thousand-pound animal with quiet confidence, they begin rediscovering their own capacity for discipline, trust, and self-direction.
Horses help participants
Build confidence through partnership
Develop emotional regulation and calm intention
Strengthen discipline through daily routines
Learn nonverbal communication and awareness
Restore trust, belonging, and self-worth
Joy for Life is a living, working sanctuary. Participants will care for horses, engage in meaningful ranch work, and receive structured equine-assisted therapy in a place designed to cultivate stability, purpose, and hope.
Follow Us
BOARD & ADVISORS
Ryan L. Hopman, Ph.D.: Chairman of the Board of Directors and President
Peter Ellis: Officer of Ranch, Program, and Development
Nicole Hopman: Secretary and Officer of International and Community Relations
Warner Knickrehm: Officer of Facilities and Land Stewardship
Chad Partridge: Treasurer and Officer of Volunteer Engagement
Mason Azose — Vice President, J.P. Morgan Private Bank; Strategic Financial Advisor
Montecito Concierge Medicine — Clinical Partner
BestMind Behavioral Health — Clinical Partner
Nick Gower, Esq. — Civil Litigation & Formation Counsel
Jonathan J. Cavanagh, Esq. — Regulatory & Business Oversight
GET INVOLVED
Donate — Fuel therapy, housing, and paid ranch work.
Volunteer — Barn support, events, and mentorship.
Sponsor — Underwrite a horse, program, or resident.
What people are saying.
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"My son struggled for years with anxiety and autism. After just a few months in equine therapy here, he has more confidence than I ever imagined possible. The horses brought out a calm in him no medication ever could."
— Sarah Thompson, Parent
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“Working with Joy for Life completely changed my recovery journey. The structure of the ranch, the guidance of the team, and especially the bond with the horses gave me purpose and focus again.”
— James Rodriguez, Program Participant
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“As a mental health professional, I’ve referred several families here. The results are consistent—children and teens open up, build resilience, and find joy through their work with the horses. This program is a true gift to our community.”
— Dr. Emily Carter, Child Psychologist