A Legacy of Healing with Horses: The Bill and Anita Jones Equestrian Center
For as long as Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch has existed, horses have walked alongside our mission of caring for youth. Their strength, gentleness, and ability to connect in ways words cannot have made them powerful partners in healing.
Long before equine therapy became widely known, we recognized that remarkable things happen when children and horses work together. That vision lives on today through the Bill and Anita Jones Equestrian Center at the Ranch, where horses continue to play a vital role in helping youth heal, grow, and discover their strength.
Former CEO Loren Soft once reflected,
“It’s hard to explain what happens, but we have found significant breakthroughs with kids when working with animals.”
That belief shaped the Ranch’s programs for decades, embedding horses into both daily life and long-term healing.
The Bill and Anita Jones Equestrian Center
A major milestone in this tradition came in 2003 with the dedication of the Bill and Anita Jones Equestrian Center. The gift of Bill and Anita Jones expanded the Ranch’s ability to offer equine programs year-round—strengthening a connection between youth and horses that had already been part of our story for decades.
Within its arena and pastures, countless young people have discovered courage, built trust, and learned lessons that extend far beyond their time at the Ranch. Here, horses are more than companions—they are guides on the path to healing.
Whether through structured therapy or recreational programs, the equestrian center remains a cornerstone of growth, responsibility, and hope—carrying forward a legacy rooted in care, compassion, and the belief that healing happens through connection.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
Today, that heritage continues through innovative models like EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) therapy, pioneered at YBGR by Mackenzie Warren, Equine Specialist.
Unlike traditional horseback riding, EAGALA therapy takes place entirely on the ground. By engaging in activities and challenges with horses, youth begin to see their emotions and choices reflected in the animals’ responses.
This process helps them gain insight, strengthen problem-solving skills, and develop resilience.
Alongside EAGALA, we continue to offer recreational riding programs, where youth learn horsemanship, basic care, and responsibility through daily work crews—all while experiencing the joy and freedom of riding.
A Continuing Legacy of Connection
For generations, horses have been more than animals at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch. They are mirrors, teachers, and healers—partners guiding youth toward hope, belonging, and a future filled with possibility.
Each interaction between a child and a horse tells a story of trust built, boundaries tested, and confidence taking root.
In the quiet rhythm of brushing a horse or leading one across the arena, youth learn patience, empathy, and the value of steady presence. These small moments often become lasting lessons—reminders that progress takes time and that healing happens through connection.
The legacy of the Bill and Anita Jones Equestrian Center isn’t measured only in the number of youth served but in the lives transformed through its pastures and programs.
Each day, horses help young people find courage, confidence, and care—qualities that stay with them long after they leave the Ranch.
Learn More About Our History
Visit our History page to explore the story—and the caring people—who gave birth to our mission. Their vision continues to touch the lives of thousands of youth across Montana and beyond each year.
Want to dive deeper? You can also find A Legacy of Caring, written by our founder, Franklin Robbie, available on Amazon.