Redemption Ranch aims to heal BVI through animal therapy

As the community continues to call for positive values and attitudes among young people, Redemption Ranch on Buck Island is suggesting animal therapy as an effective way to engage and heal the BVI’s children.

Redemption Ranch is a nonprofit animal rescue and equine-assisted programme founded by Britnie Turner who bought Buck Island in 2016. Though they offer programmes for tourists and trauma survivors like veterans and domestic violence victims, there’s a major focus on youth empowerment, especially those with special needs.

Ranch Manager Ashley Harrell told BVI News that the organisation is aware that the community is seeking ways to positively impact young people across the territory. But she said many don’t know that Redemption Ranch is quietly becoming a place of transformation for both animals and people. 

“We serve the BVI community through a range of impactful programmes, including equine-assisted sessions for children with special needs, free educational outreach programmes for local youth, teaching respect, empathy, and responsibility through hands-on horse care,” Harrell explained.

She explained the ranch has already impacted youth at the Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre and is getting ready to work with YEP and M.A.L.E youth mentorship programmes.

But Redemption Ranch wants to reach even more organisations and schools in the community. They’re aware that Caribbean cultures sometimes foster a fear of animals, but stress that a single experience is all individuals need, especially since the youth programmes are free of cost.

“The impact that horses have on children is amazing. They immediately gain a sense of calm, they get to regulate their emotions and they build a lot of confidence. I’ve been working in this field for 36 years and I’m still in awe everyday — you’ll see a lot of these kids come in very nervous and by the end of the day you’ll see them hugging the horses’ legs. Any school in the BVI can come to us and it’s free of cost,” Harrell explained proudly.

Amid the numerous reports of intimate partner violence in the territory, Harrell said the ranch is already tackling domestic abuse through their partnership with Women in Need (WIN). 

They know this is a longstanding problem in society so they continue to search for more initiatives that work with survivors of sexual and domestic abuse.

“We want the community to know that we’re here to be a force for good. We want to heal individuals so they can heal others. The BVI is such a beautiful welcoming community and if we end the trauma cycle early, especially with the kids, we’ll turn them into advocates for themselves and animals as well. That way, the next generation gets to deal with less trauma,” Harrell said. 

Those wishing to reach Redemption Ranch may contact 1 (284) 345-4665 or as****@*******vi.com.