Listen with curiosity. Speak with honesty. Act with integrity.
Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart
MISSION
Wilderwood has become a leader in the autistic community, both in the United States and internationally. It has closely followed a carefully curated business plan, developing its programs and goals to include a counseling and equitherapy program, a robust research program that is actively developing a new instrument and protocol to assess for autism in women, and a rescue facility to train unwanted and surrendered horses for use in its programming.
VISION
Wilderwood’s vision, realized through its services, programs, and research initiatives will open sustainable and achievable pathways for autistic people to flourish as thriving members of their communities, and to honor, care, and educate about our equine partners.
GOALS
a) Improve health, social, and economic outcomes for autistic people that include:
- Increased self-awareness, confidence, and connection with others;
- Positive emotional regulation and management;
- Reduced emotional distress and anxiety;
- Achievement of personal goals and aspirations
b) Actively involve members of the community to:
- Increase and improve community knowledge and awareness of autism, particularly in women and girls;
- Attract and retain volunteers in multiple areas, including equine assistants, classroom assistants, facility maintenance, office administrative assistance, and Special Volunteers, who accept projects related to research, fundraising, and outreach;
- Recognize and leverage the expertise and lived experience of autistic adults, which validates their contributions to society and a greater appreciation and understanding of difference.
c) Synthesize research, education, and autistic lived experienced by combining elements of equine training and handling approaches and opportunities based on the philosophy of Hautism – or the innate connection between horses and autistic people.
d) Educate, advise, advocate for, and – where possible – rescue and rehabilitate abandoned or unwanted horses, including providing educational materials, onsite or web-based clinics, and guest educators and/or trainers;
e) Research autism in women, an area that is significantly underfunded and under-served, including publication of findings from our research and providing autism diagnostic assessment services and research instruments for adults, particularly women.