Thanks to all who joined us this summer!
Program Update: While we are no longer offering the Equine Facilitated Wellness Summer Camp, we continue to offer a variety of Summer 2026 camps focused on social-emotional growth, executive functioning, confidence, and connection.
About The Program
Our Equine Facilitated Wellness (EFW) Summer Camp offers a one-of-a-kind experience where children and teens build emotional strength, confidence, and social skills through hands-on activities with horses. Horses are natural teachers--offering honest, non-verbal feedback that helps participants connect more deeply with themselves and others.
Led by Ashley Gowanlock, a three-time Canadian Paralympian in Para-Dressage and a certified Educational Assistant with experience supporting neurodiverse students, campers will engage in activities like grooming, leading, and observing horse behavior. Ashley's passion and expertise create a welcoming environment where every child can feel supported, encouraged, and empowered to grow.
Who Can Benefit?
This camp is designed for youth ages 8-19 who may benefit from extra support with emotional and social skills. It's especially helpful for those navigating:
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
- ADHD
- Anxiety or Depression
- Learning Disabilities
- Developmental Delays
Through working with horses, participants gain powerful tools for building self-awareness, emotional regulation, and resilience, all while having fun, moving their bodies, and connecting with nature.
At EFW Summer Camp, growth happens naturally, one step at a time.
What To Expect
Each session includes:
- Hands-on activities with horses, such as grooming and leading, feeding and helping out in the barn
- Experiential learning techniques like role-playing and mirroring
- Opportunities for self-reflection and personal growth
- A supportive environment fostering emotional and social development
Participants work alongside the horses, not on horseback.
All activities take place on the ground in a safe, structured, and closely supervised environment. No prior horse experience is required, just a willingness to learn and connect.
HORSE
Honesty & Integrity • Open-Mindedness • Respect • Self-Motivation • Enthusiasm
Meet Our Coach!
Ashley is a distinguished three-time Paralympian in Para-Dressage who has proudly represented Canada at the Beijing 2008, London 2012, and Rio 2016 Paralympic Games. With a passion for horses that began at just two years old, Ashley's journey into equestrian sports started shortly after she was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. Her dedication and skill also led her to compete at the 2010 and 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games, showcasing her talent on the global stage.
Beyond her competitive achievements, Ashley is a dedicated advocate for the power of equine partnerships in fostering personal growth and development. Her deep connection with horses enhances her role as a coach in Equine Assisted Learning, where she leverages her extensive experience to guide and inspire participants. Ashley's ability to connect with horses and people alike makes her an invaluable asset to our program.
Since 2014, Ashley has served as an ambassador for Right To Play, promoting healthy, active lifestyles among children. She is also a seasoned public speaker and the author of "My Opportunities Just Dress Up As Obstacles," a book published in late 2015 that explores her life's challenges and triumphs.
Through her roles as both a Paralympian and coach, Ashley exemplifies the profound impact that horses can have in transforming lives, making her a pivotal member of our Equine Facilitated Wellness team.