What We Care About
About Us
Manette Steele, the minis, and the Mighty Miniature Horse Therapy Program

Inspiration
OUR HISTORY
After spending 43 years in the corporate world, I knew that retirement had to be more than just slowing down—it had to be meaningful. I wanted to give back in a way that felt personal and healing. Mini horse therapy groups kept appearing in my social feed, and something about them tugged at my heart and I began to explore what it would take to start a program of my own.
Having grown up with horses, I’ve always understood their quiet power—the way they comfort, connect, and heal. Creating a mini horse therapy program felt like coming home. It also aligned perfectly with my personal philosophy: just keep moving
Today, our minis and I visit senior care homes, hospitals—including the Grand Junction Veterans Hospital—and participate in reading programs for children. We’ve developed a special initiative called “Just Say Whoa to Bullying,” and we’re active in community events like educational programs with the Ridgway Historical Museum, Ouray Yule Night, and local parades. Our mission is simple but powerful: to nurture and inspire people, one pat at a time, promoting health and wellness.
After all those years in the corporate world, I’ve come to realize that everyone needs a little therapy—sometimes it’s as simple as a smile and the gentle presence of a 25-inch mini horse. That’s why we’ve expanded our program to include an Airbnb experience. Guests can stay with us, walk alongside the minis, spend quiet time grooming them, and feel the joy that comes from connecting with these remarkable little horses.
