Our Story
Living Wells Farm Equine-Assisted Services is dedicated to promoting the well-being of children and adults through equine-assisted programs.
Living Wells Farm has served the Wells, Maine, community since 2015, offering riding lessons, 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 programs for individuals and groups in the community.
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 navigating 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, horse-centered approach that fosters mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Through hands-on activities, participants can build confidence, develop trust, and form meaningful connections. These experiences also encourage empathy, communication, and self-awareness in a unique and engaging environment.
Our Approach
At Living Wells Farm, we are guided by a commitment to:
- Providing a natural, welcoming environment that recognizes 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 well-being
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 for individuals of all ages and experience levels. Programs include riding, horsemanship, and seasonal camps, all designed to foster confidence, connection, and personal growth in a safe and supportive environment.
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 and education, creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for every participant.
Trainers
Katarina
Horses have been a part of Katarina’s life since she was five years old, and she has been involved with LWF since the beginning as one of the owners’ daughters. Growing up on a family-run horse farm helped shape her passion for riding, horsemanship, and creating a welcoming environment for others to learn and grow.
Katarina currently attends college in upstate New York, where she is earning her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience. No matter where life takes her, the farm remains one of her greatest passions.
Olive
Olive has loved horses for as long as she can remember and enjoys sharing that passion with riders of all ages. Whether someone is trying horseback riding for the first time or looking to build confidence around horses, Olive loves helping participants feel comfortable, supported, and excited to learn.
When she’s at the barn, some of her favorite activities include trail riding and jumping. She enjoys helping others build meaningful connections with both the horses and the farm community.
Tabrea
Tabrea has been riding horses for more than 11 years and is currently studying Animal and Veterinary Sciences at the University of Maine. Through her experience at Living Wells Farm, she has developed a passion for helping others connect with horses and learn more about farm life.
She enjoys creating a supportive environment where riders can build confidence, develop new skills, and enjoy spending time with the animals.
Our Horses
Our horses are at the heart of everything we do. Each plays an important role in 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 and growth.
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.