Our Story
The mission of Equine Assisted Development of Grand Rapids began over 16 years ago with the vision of one woman, Deb VanderBand, and her yearling horse, Cochise. After obtaining LLC status in 2006 and later non-profit status, VanderBand continues with the same simple idea: connecting horses and people. Over the years, Equine Assisted Development has become an opportunity for people like you to help horses help people through the giving of time, expertise, and monetary support.
Equine Assisted Development is located at
3224 32nd Street in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Our location is unique: We are a 26-acre farm in the middle of the city. Equine Assisted Development provides unique equine therapy experiences for people of all ages, both individually and in groups. Every session is an on-ground (no riding), client-led, and interactive experience for personal growth and healing through various non-riding activities. Because our sessions are grounded, no prior experience with horses is necessary.
Together, a certified equine specialist and mental health professional facilitate each session and help participants process the activities and horse response. Through metaphoric dialogue, observation, and open-ended questions, clients discover the perceptions and cognitive processes behind their beliefs and actions. Horses help people find their own solutions in a nonjudgmental, emotionally safe environment.
Equine therapy sessions occur in the barn, arena, or pasture, depending on the client's needs and the activity's nature. Equine Assisted Development of Grand Rapids has a place for everyone. We offer our services to people from all backgrounds. Our goal is to be a place of healing, giving each person hope.
Our goal is for you to leave the farm in a different frame of mind and
emotions than when you arrived.
We believe One Life Changed can Change a Community.
Faith Statement
In John 10:10 , Jesus said, "I have come that they may have life and have it to the full."
We believe that 'full life' is only found in Jesus Christ. We are called to show love, extend grace, and offer healing as we point to Jesus and the full life that He offers.
Real Happiness Begins in a Stable.
Core Values
Hope
Honesty
Respect
Integrity
Dignity
EAD'S MISSION
We provide hope, healing and restoration through unique horse experiences at our refuge in the city.
We are conveniently located along the city bus route making us accessible for clients for whom transportation is a barrier. Our farm is a beacon of hope and fresh air within the hustle and bustle of industry and city life. We are not what anyone would expect when they hear 'horse farm' because we are just a few blocks from 28th street, shopping, and dining. Our urban existence allows us to impact the community in which we live because we meet our clients right where they are, right in the city, right in our community.
EAD provides a safe, calm space for individuals experiencing grief, depression, PTSD, anxiety, trauma, Alzheimer's, Dementia and other psychological issues. We believe that EAGALA equine assisted therapy and equine assisted learning can lead to healing, growth, and a better understanding of ourselves, our patterns, and our personal barriers in life.
Equine Assisted Therapy is unique and universal in its ability to make a positive impact on every individual who works with our horses, providing healing to various forms of trauma. EAD wants to bring that healing to our clients, our city, and our community.
Media Features
Equine Assisted Development interview - woodradio.iheart.com
Non-profit Brings "Real Happiness" with Mobile Horse Therapy - WomansLifestyle.com
Free Horse Therapy Offered to Essential Workers - fox17online.com
Equine Assisted Development Moves into the City - WGVU Public Radio
Fundraiser for Kentwood Ranch Designed to Educate Residents - WGVU Public Radio