Help us share the benefits of animal-assisted therapeutic visits for people in need.

Our Story

Founded in 2009, Jasper Ridge Farm is dedicated to providing meaningful, interactive, animal-assisted therapeutic visits for children, teens and adults in our community.

Explore Our Animal-assisted Programs

How It Began

Jasper Ridge Farm began with a simple belief: that meaningful connections between people and animals can change lives.

Jasper Ridge Farm was founded by Wendy Mattes after a deeply moving experience with a young girl she was teaching to ride horses. When the child developed a brain tumor and was no longer able to travel, Wendy brought a miniature horse to visit her at home.

The experience had a big impact on Wendy. In that moment, Wendy knew she wanted to create a place where more children could experience the same kind of healing connection.

Who We Serve

Jasper Ridge Farm's therapeutic animal-assisted programs improve the physical, mental and social wellbeing of the most vulnerable children and adults in our community.

Our animals have endless love and kindness to give, and our programs create meaningful, positive change for:

Children with special needs or facing life-threatening illness
Children who are at-risk, underserved and undervalued, and new comer children
Families experiencing homelessness or grief
Youth struggling with mental or emotional health challenges
Veterans and active military
Older adults and adults with disabilities
Incarcerated women
Corporate teams and community groups

Meet the Team

Small but mighty, our team brings a diverse set of skills with huge hearts to Jasper Ridge Farm. Together, we care for our animals, support our programs, and help create a welcoming space for everyone.

Brenda Melton

Executive
Director

Arlo Bushnell

Development
Director

Nicole Albuerne

Program
Director

Allegra Stahl

Animal Care
Manager

Margaret Block

Horse Care
Manager

Kira Furukawa

Animal Care
Specialist

Todd Trundle

Operations
Manager

Wendy Mattes

Founder

Meet the Board

Jasper Ridge Farm is guided by a committed Board of Directors who support our mission, provide governance, and help ensure the long-term sustainability of the organization.