De la Cruz Farms: Nonprofit Farm Ministry
A farm providing therapy services, referral based recreational equine sessions, and outreach opportunities to our community as inspired by our Christian faith.
At De la Cruz Farms, we are dedicated to enriching lives through therapy, recreational equine sessions, and community outreach. Located in the heart of Boone, NC, our farm provides a peaceful environment where individuals can find healing and joy inspired by our Christian faith. Our programs cater to a wide range of needs, ensuring that everyone can benefit from the unique bond between humans and horses.
Who We Are:
De la Cruz Farms was founded by Jeff and Bencita Brooks in 2014 with the desire to provide needed services to our community in a farm environment. Our programs have been structured to serve individuals and groups who live challenging life situations or who have a variety of unique abilities such as cerebral palsy, autism, Down syndrome, developmental delay, brain injuries, established medical conditions, trauma, emotional difficulties and mental health needs. These services focus on learning, growth and restoration as inspired by our Christian faith.
Our Services and Ministry:
Therapy Services
We offer speech-language therapy services and other specialized therapies utilizing equine movements to help participants achieve functional outcomes.
Recreational Equine Sessions
These sessions are recreational in nature. Whether on the ground or on the horse, participants are assisted by an experienced horse leader, side walkers, or farm staff who are trained to teach basic horsemanship, riding skills, and how to engage in animal interactions in a safe, social environment.
HippoTherapy
Hippotherapy is a term used to refer to equine (horse) movement being incorporated into occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language therapy as one of many therapy tools/strategies used to facilitate functional outcomes. This powerful, rhythmic movement impacts the whole person providing input that the licensed therapist can use to impact physical, sensory, cognitive, emotional, neuromotor systems as part of an integrated plan of care. Equine movement, ground activities and relationship with the horse in a farm environment create a motivating and fun atmosphere to achieve functional outcomes. Visit americanhippotherapyassociation.org.
Equine Session Leaders
Our team of equine leaders is at the heart of De la Cruz Farms. They bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the benefits of working with horses. Our leaders are dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for all our clients.
Farm Setting & Animal Interaction
We offer opportunities to individuals and families who are experiencing traumatic life events and challenging situations to use the farm atmosphere for enjoyment and renewal.
Community Services:
We collaborate with local organizations such as Watauga Opportunities by providing volunteer work for adolescents at the farm. We partner with the Department of Social Services, service groups, churches, schools, parent groups, and day care centers.
We facilitate a variety of Love and Logic classes, participate with the Joy Prom (special dance for teens and adults with special needs), offer summer camps, teach classes about the importance of honeybees and how honey is harvested and provide other services with the purpose of providing a safe space for the community to gather together, build one another up and receive helpful resources.
2023 Impact:
Volunteer Hours: 350 Hours by 30 Volunteers
Total Families Served: 155
Other Things on the Farm
Air Bee N Bee
Come and stay at the Air bee-N-bee, a family and pet friendly home away from home with character and charm in every corner. Centrally located to Wilkesboro, West Jefferson, and Boone in Deep Gap, NC. You can be to Appalachian State University, the Blue Ridge Parkway, or multiple ski mountains in just minutes. The Air bee-N-bee is located in the Honey House where honey is processed and bottled.
Hooves-n-Honey: A Beehive at the Farm
We at Hooves-n-Honey Farms manage our yearly operation in order to position our hives to capture varietal honey that takes on the particular flavors based on the soil on which the flowers grow in a climate common to the High-Country region of North Carolina. Honey has “terroir,” which is a French term meaning “a sense of place.” Much like grapes growing in a region that encompasses all the factors needed to produce wine in a vineyard, honey will take on environmental characteristics unique to a special area of focus, as well. Visit our honey store located at the farm. (We operate on a complete honor policy.) Please contact us for a tour of our farm and honey production process.
Why De la Cruz Farms?
At De la Cruz Farms, we are committed to providing exceptional care and support through our therapy services and recreational equine programs. Here’s what sets us apart:
• Christian faith-based: Giving healing through the name of Jesus.
• Compassionate Care: Our team is dedicated to offering a warm and supportive environment.
• Community Focus: We strive to make a positive impact on our community through outreach and support.
• Holistic Approach: We address physical, emotional, and mental well-being through our comprehensive programs.
Boone, NC: A Beautiful Setting for Healing and Growth
Located in Deep Gap, NC, De la Cruz Farms offers a tranquil environment that enhances the therapeutic experience. Our farm is surrounded by natural beauty, providing the perfect backdrop for healing and personal growth.
