Making A New Way

Making a New Way is located at Holly Hill Farm in Benton, LA and provides Equine Assisted Services for children. Poor communication and low self-esteem are common concerns  for youth today. However, children who have experienced several adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are particularly vulnerable to these concerns due to inherent trust and self worth issues. Our program teaches social emotional learning in a trauma informed environment. Along side a mentor; the kids partner with a horse in activities, farm chores and creative play to promote emotional regulation. This provides opportunity for growth in their self esteem, self worth, sense of responsibility, and the development of healthy relationships. 

Testimonials

Parent of child in program:

MAWAY has been an absolutely wonderful experience for us. Both of my kids were having a hard time with life in general, but especially with relationships.  Ms. Harrell said this program might be a good fit for them due to the trauma they’d experienced, and I couldn’t be happier that we’re there. The mentors my kids have, have made such a difference in their lives and know how to make them feel safe and comfortable while they’re with them. I was impressed with the goal sheet Ms. Harrell came up with for my kids, because every week you can slowly see them reaching those goals, which is incredible. I never thought we’d come as far as we have, but between their new love for horses, and their love for Yevette and her mentors, my boys genuinely look forward to going out there every week. They are doing amazing things with and for my kids, and I couldn’t be more grateful.

Parent of child in program:
Making a New Way has helped teach life skills to our daughter that she had been struggling to learn. The mentors are always willing to listen and help find activities that can reinforce skills. Making a New Way has helped guide our daughter to learn how to process her emotions in age-appropriate ways. We are so thankful for this program!

Mentor- Anne Parks   

Being a mentor at Making A New Way has been more than I ever imagined.  I wasn't sure I was the right fit as I'm not a horse girl.  I quickly learned that was in no way a requirement.  The horses help build healthy relationships.  It is so fulfilling to spend time with these kids, helping them put words to their thoughts and feelings.  What better way than to be outside on a farm, brushing and walking horses and talking about real life things.  I love to see the kids progressing and building self-confidence.  I've seen the benefits of the program.  It works.

Mentor- Amy Rokaw

MAWAY is a place where children connect and develop relationships; relationships with their mentors and with horses.  By interacting with the horses, the children see how their emotions and activity levels affect how the horses respond to them. By seeing the horse’s reactions, the children learn to regulate their own emotions. The most rewarding experience I have had as a mentor is watching the progress the children have made over the years. Being in nature and around animals has a calming effect and MAWAY provides that experience for the children in a fun and loving environment. 

Volunteer/Owner of Holly Hill Farm- Tracy Hewlett

Several years ago I was in a bible study with Yevette Harrell. At the end of it she asked us each to write down something that was on our hearts for prayer. I wrote down that I would like to see Holly Hill Farm become a place of equine therapy for people in need. What a wonderful journey it has been seeing MAWAY grow out of those prayers! 

Mentor- Rhonda Davis-Chavis

My experience with the Making a New Way program is just as fulfilling as a Mentor as it is for the children I have worked with. I enjoy exploring and learning how we can navigate through life’s situations together! Developing communication and trust; reading and understanding the parallel world between us and horses and seeing the connections first hand and helping all!