About us
Welcome to our barn, where we believe meaningful growth begins with connection. Through horses, nature, and hands-on experiences, we create a welcoming space where people can reflect, learn, grow, and thrive.
Our story begins with a deep love for horses and a desire to share the unique connection they create with people. With the support of our community and collaborators, Elm Farm Learning Center opened in July 2025 as a place where horses, humans, and nature come together through meaningful, hands-on experiences. Today, our facilitators, volunteers, and equine partners create opportunities for reflection, learning, growth, and connection.
Our Story
Our Mission
To hold a space of reflection, growth, and connection- where the unique bond between humans and horses inspires personal transformation, lifelong learning, and community resilience.
Who We Are
Elm Farm Learning Center was founded on the belief that meaningful growth is built through connection, hands-on experiences, and a strong sense of community. Since opening in July 2025, we have created a welcoming farm environment where people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities can build confidence, develop new skills, and connect with horses and nature.
With the early support and collaboration of The Craft School at Mill Hollow Works, Elm Farm Learning Center established programs focused on experiential learning, community engagement, and accessible opportunities for personal growth. Today, we offer equine-facilitated learning programs, volunteer opportunities, and community partnerships that encourage communication, leadership, confidence, and practical life skills in an inclusive and supportive setting.
Our team combines expertise in equine care, farm management, education, and program development with a shared commitment to compassionate horsemanship and meaningful community involvement. We believe horses provide powerful opportunities to foster trust, responsibility, self-awareness, and resilience, and we are dedicated to creating experiences that are welcoming, empowering, and rooted in genuine connection.
As Elm Farm Learning Center continues to grow, our mission remains unchanged: to provide a place where everyone feels valued, supported, and inspired—and where both people and horses can learn, grow, and thrive together.
Meet the Heart Behind Our Barn
Passionate individuals dedicated to guiding, supporting, and inspiring every participants journey.
Erin Ballard
Erin Ballard is co-owner of Elm Farm Learning Center, driven by a passion for equine management and connecting horses and people. She manages farm operations and co-facilitates programs that support our values.
Co-Founder, Barn Manager, Head Facilitator 
Iria Doescher
Iria Doescher is co-owner of Elm Farm Learning Center, with a passion for creating meaningful programs that mindfully connect people, horses, and nature. She manages administration and communications while expanding access and opportunity.
Co- Founder, Administration, Head Facilitator 
Our volunteers are at the heart of Elm Farm Learning Center, helping operate programs and support the care and well-being of our horses. Their time and dedication make it possible to create meaningful, connected experiences for all who come to the farm.
Program and farm support