Our Story
Living Wells Farm Equine-Assisted Services is dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of children and adults through equine-assisted services, including those with physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges.
Living Wells Farm has served the Wells, Maine, community since 2015, offering riding lessons, trail rides, summer camps, and other equine programs. Over time, the farm has also partnered with local schools and veterans organizations to expand access to equine-assisted services for individuals in need.
In March 2021, co-founder Bob Hoffman experienced a life-changing medical event—a ruptured aneurysm followed by two strokes. His recovery journey brought a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals living with trauma, disability, and loss. This experience became a defining moment, strengthening the farm’s commitment to expanding its mission.
Equine-assisted services (EAS) offer an experiential approach to supporting mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Through horse-based activities, participants can build confidence, develop trust, and form meaningful connections. These experiences also foster empathy, communication, and self-awareness in a unique and engaging environment.
Today, Living Wells Farm continues to grow its offerings, providing adaptive horsemanship, equine-assisted learning, and programs designed to support a wide range of needs.
Our Approach
At Living Wells Farm, we are guided by a commitment to:
- Providing a natural, restorative environment that supports each individual’s unique needs
- Offering both short- and long-term, relationship-based programs
- Promoting respect, dignity, kindness, and compassion in every interaction
- Creating meaningful experiences that support growth, connection, and healing
Who We Serve
We serve individuals and groups across Southern Maine, including:
- Individuals with physical, emotional, or cognitive challenges
- Children, teens, and adults
- Schools and community organizations
- Veterans and military families
- Individuals navigating trauma, grief, or life transitions
Our programs are designed to meet participants where they are, providing a supportive and adaptable environment for growth, connection, and well-being.
What We Offer
Living Wells Farm offers a range of equine-assisted programs designed to support individuals of all ages and experience levels. Our offerings include:
- Therapeutic and adaptive riding
- Recreational riding lessons
- Ground-based equine-assisted learning programs
- Summer camps and group experiences
Each program is designed to promote confidence, connection, and personal growth in a safe and supportive environment.
To explore our programs in more detail, visit our Programs & Services page or contact us to discuss your specific needs.
Our Team
Our programs are led by experienced instructors and supported by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. Our team brings a range of expertise in equine care, education, and therapeutic services, creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for every participant.
Our Horses
Our horses are at the heart of everything we do. Each plays an important role in supporting our programs—helping participants build confidence, develop trust, and form meaningful connections. Carefully selected for their temperament and training, they provide a safe and supportive environment for learning, growth, and healing.
Each horse brings a unique personality to our programs. Here are a few of the horses participants may work with:
King
A sweet and clever paint with a big personality, King is known for keeping things interesting—on his first day, he cleared every fence in the paddock.
Charlie
A playful Appaloosa with a sense of humor, Charlie keeps everyone smiling. While he once had bigger career plans, he’s found his place at the farm as both an entertainer and a talented partner.
Raven
A calm and gentle Morgan, Raven is especially well-suited for beginners. He’s a steady presence and always happy to stand for grooming and attention.
Sandy
A bold and spirited Haflinger, Sandy brings plenty of personality to the barn. She’s a farm favorite known for her sass, her voice, and her love of a good trail ride.
Coco Chanel
Athletic and dependable, Coco shines both in and out of the ring. As the barn’s “boss mare,” she keeps everyone in line.
Jack
Quiet, steady, and dependable, Jack is the kind of horse you can always count on. A natural leader on the trails, he’s calm, confident, and ready for any adventure.