About The Horse Project
A sanctuary where horses find healing, and people discover the transformative power of the human-horse connection.
Our Story
The Horse Project Santa Barbara was born from a simple but powerful belief: horses and humans heal each other. What started as a small effort to rescue abandoned horses has grown into a thriving sanctuary and therapeutic center that transforms lives daily.
Over the past 15 years, we've rescued more than 50 horses from neglect, abuse, and abandonment. Each horse that arrives at our sanctuary receives individualized care, rehabilitation, and love. Many go on to find forever homes; others become permanent residents who serve as gentle teachers in our therapeutic programs.
Today, we're proud to offer programs that serve veterans healing from trauma, individuals seeking connection, and families looking for meaningful experiences. Our horses don't just receive care—they give back immeasurably.
Our Core Values
Compassion
Every horse deserves love, dignity, and a second chance. We treat each animal as an individual with unique needs and potential.
Community
We bring people together around a shared love for horses. Our programs build connections that last a lifetime.
Healing
We believe in the therapeutic power of horses. Through our programs, both horses and humans find healing and growth.
Our Fiscal Sponsorship
The Horse Project Santa Barbara operates under the fiscal sponsorship of the Players Philanthropy Fund, a 501(c)(3) public charity. This partnership ensures that all donations are tax-deductible and that we maintain the highest standards of nonprofit governance.
Tax-deductible donations can be made directly to The Horse Project Santa Barbara. All contributions are used exclusively for horse care, sanctuary operations, and therapeutic programs.
The Sanctuary Concept
Some of our horses are forever residents—horses who, due to age, health, or temperament, will live out their days in our care. These Sanctuary Horses are the heart of our therapeutic programs.
Our sanctuary is not just a place to live—it's a place to thrive. Each horse receives specialized care, enrichment, and the freedom to simply be a horse. In return, they offer something priceless: their gentle presence, which helps heal the humans who visit.
Support a Sanctuary HorseJoin Our Family
Whether you're looking to volunteer, donate, or simply visit our horses, we'd love to welcome you.