Equine Healing Collaborative

The Equine Healing Collaborative (EHC) is making a profound impact on mental health services in Monterey County. With a belief that everyone should have access to mental health support regardless of socioeconomic status, EHC’s mission is to provide mental health assistance to all individuals in need, with a special focus on underserved communities. Through its unique approach of providing Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) with rescued horses and donkeys and licensed therapists, EHC has been able to create a powerful connection between human healing and equine recovery. EHC provides services such as group psychotherapy in the surf in partnership with the Wahine Project; group retreats for veterans and first responders; individual therapy for survivors of sex trafficking; retreats for school district employees and students; and more.

EHC established a Stewardship Fund at the CFMC to support their work and ensure the sustainability of their therapy herd and services, serving as an investment in the organization's current operations and future development. Donations contribute to the care provided to both the therapy herd and to clients, ultimately enhancing the wellbeing of the entire community.

Carmel Cares Stewardship Fund

The mission of Carmel Cares is to develop and support projects and programs that keep Carmel-by-the-Sea a beautiful, safe, and inviting place. Volunteers are committed to making sure that Carmel Beach, Scenic Pathway, Forest Theater, and other important public spaces are maintained in pristine condition. Carmel Cares is also dedicated to community engagement, partnering closely with the City of Carmel’s Public Works Department and other nonprofit organizations to make a difference.

Starting as a virtual organization in 2018 to make the Village safer, Carmel Cares shifted focus when COVID-19 hit in 2020 to help maintain the beauty of the town in response to budget cuts and became a 501(c)3 nonprofit later that year. They partnered with the CFMC to create the Carmel Cares Stewardship Fund to support their efforts which include landscape and physical asset restoration and maintenance, eliminating litter, creating custom structures and other activities which enhance and protect this special Village.

“We are grateful to partner with the Community Foundation to make a positive difference in Carmel and create a beautiful place for all to enjoy now and in the future,” said Dale Byrne, President and Chief Caring Officer, Carmel Cares.

cfmco.org/EquineHealing cfmco.org/CarmelCares