Life's Little Adventures Farm
By Stephanie Mark

From the resident animal menagerie to the hundreds of families that visit ittlLife's Le Adventures Farm, Inc. (LLAF) each year, everyone at this Wooster, Ohio farm is both lucky and loved. Nearly six years ago, the Willard family started the nonprofit program on its farm to rescue abused ponies, horses, pigs, ducks, cats, dogs, rabbits and other animals. Equines are often purchased from the auction block, saving them from being slaughtered and sold as meat to foreign countries. LLAF rehabilitates the estranged creatures and offers an interactive, therapeutic experience to families undergoing a difficult time due to illness, disability or emotional trauma.

Offering the program for free, LLAF has served more than 2,000 families, and many have experienced remarkable results. Clients range from those who are “differently abled” (as LLAF prefers to call physically, mentally or emotionally disabled individuals) to those in need of a friend. Some kids are from families that have a terminally-ill parent; other cases include sexual-assault victims and domestic-abuse situations. Spending time with the animals allows the healing process to begin.

Children who visit the farm often progress in their therapy and learning in ways that were previously difficult. For example, children with autism often lack social skills. At LLAF, these children gain confidence and become more outgoing. Children with physical limitations benefit greatly, as well. One four-year-old, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, went to the farm bound to a wheelchair, but within nine months he was able to walk and lead the pony assigned to him in and out of the pasture by himself.

Success stories for animals and humans alike abound at Life's Little Adventures Farm. With specialized programs, all family members – parents and siblings alike – can interact with and benefit from working with the animals. Beginning with the rescue of each animal, LLAF has developed a program that offers infinite opportunities for healing and unconditional love.

Life's Little Adventures Farm is located less than an hour south of Cleveland at 9199 Burbank Road in Wooster, Ohio. For more information, call (330) 624-0508 or visit www.LifesLittleAdventuresFarm.org.