Tender Little Hearts Mini Tales and Equine Assisted Services

Tender Little Hearts Mini Tales and Equine Assisted Services is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting literacy and offering therapeutic services through equine-assisted activities. Founded in 2018, the organization is headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Mission

Tender Little Hearts aims to create an environment where every horse is given a purpose to enrich human life, bring joy, comfort, and leave individuals with a reason to smile. Their mission focuses on improving literacy, promoting personal development, and encouraging positive life choices.

Programs and Services

The organization provides innovative equine-based literacy and reading programs, which are unique in Arizona for being off-site. These programs involve transporting qualified miniature therapy horses and donkeys to libraries, schools, child advocacy centers, and other locations where children can benefit. Through interactions with these miniature equines, the organization encourages children to become confident readers by offering a safe and empowering environment. This approach helps build confidence and provides an understanding listener who does not criticize, thus encouraging children to continue reading and improve their proficiency.

Therapeutic Benefits

Tender Little Hearts' programs offer a range of therapeutic benefits, including comfort, joyfulness, empowerment, self-esteem, and unconditional love. The interaction with miniature therapy animals is known to release an automatic relaxation response, lower anxiety, reduce loneliness, increase mental stimulation, and provide a happy distraction. These animals can mirror and respond to human behavior, making them excellent companions for therapy.

Outreach and Impact

Since its inception, Tender Little Hearts has provided over 100,000 hours of volunteer service, conducting 3-4 program visits each week. Their Mini Tales program reaches approximately 3,500 to 4,000 children annually through school, library, and child advocacy center visits. The organization does not charge for its services, ensuring that it can serve underserved areas and Title 1 schools effectively.

Rescue and Rehabilitation

While not its primary mission, Tender Little Hearts occasionally rescues miniature horses and donkeys. After rehabilitation, if suitable, these animals are integrated into the therapy program. Otherwise, the organization helps find loving homes for them through its network.

Organizational Structure

Tender Little Hearts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and an Arizona Qualifying Charitable Organization. It is entirely volunteer-supported, with all funding directed toward its programs.

External Links

This organization is listed on Charity Navigator with the EIN 83-4236909.