Metaphorse Growth and Healing Center
“We rescue horses who rescue people.”
Who’s healing whom? At Metaphorse, the answer is beautifully both.
Revolutionizing healing through the power of horse-human connection.
- 100+ horses rescued
- 500+ lives transformed
- 10 years of pioneering equine-assisted therapy
My first encounter with horses was with Jody when I was nine years old. This could not have come at a better timing, as I was going through a difficult time in my childhood. Horses gave me a sense of comfort unlike any I had known. My horse Brandy understood my pain, my sadness, the fear I could not say out loud. She was gentle, kind, wise. With her I felt safe…Now as an adult, I go and visit Jody and the Metaphorse herd to be healed, held, and loved by her magical tribe.
(From a person who grew up at Metaphorse)
Our Mission
At Metaphorse, we bring retired horses and humans together to create lasting, transformative change. Founded on the profound healing potential of the horse-human relationship, we’ve pioneered innovative approaches to emotional healing, personal development, and therapeutic care.
The Metaphorse Difference
- Holistic Healing: We operate in two interconnected realms:
– The visible world of horse care and riding
– The invisible world of equine energy and emotional connection - Diverse Programs:
– One-on-one Equine Energy Exchange sessions
– Workshops and clinics
– Hippotherapy for various physical and neurological conditions
– Charitable work for families with limited means
– Kids’ summer camps and riding lessons - Proven Impact: Since our founding, we’ve served:
– Nearly 240 individuals
– 120 children and 109 adults
– Clients from Montrose and beyond, including international visitors - Community Engagement: Our volunteer program has logged over 4,800 hours, demonstrating strong local support and involvement.
My son with intellectual disabilities was assigned to work with Jody and Metaphorse. It became not only his job but his therapy as well. He struggles to communicate clearly with people, but he swears he can talk to animals, and they talk to him. His goal in life is to work in a zoo and “speak for the animals.” His favorite horse is Amos. He says “because he’s perfect for my size and height. I feel heroic with him.”
(Mother of Metaphorse assigned volunteer)
Our Journey and Vision
- Founded in 2014 by Jody Nixon, a certified instructor in Equine-Facilitated Learning and Human Development
- Achieved 501(c)(3) status in 2009
- First-year fundraising success: $11,700 raised through five events
- 2023 program revenue: $13,126; Fundraising: $5,600
- 2024 Goals: Expand community connections, improve accessibility, and develop our hippotherapy program
I attended a workshop at Metaphorse that was absolutely mind-blowing. Jody has such a diverse herd that there is no way you will not connect with one of her horses. The emotions I felt during this workshop and Jody’s ability to decipher the horse’s “language” brought me to a place of acceptance and peace.
(Workshop participant)
The Impact of Your Support
Your contribution will directly support:
- Arena Development: A multi-purpose space for clinics, workshops, hippotherapy and lessons
– Need: Arena cover ($300,000). For year-round operations – $50,000 - Infrastructure Improvements:
– Hay storage facility ($10,000) to ensure proper cover for our hay
– Dump trailer ($10,000) for efficient facility maintenance
Jody has a gift of helping both horse and human. Her dedication to teaching others goes beyond the arena and into the workforce. As an employee of our local school district, I place students with disabilities at Metaphorse on work experiences where they learn to care for the horses. Jody teaches these students skills they need to be successful in their future employment.
(Montrose Public School employee)
Why Metaphorse Deserves Your Support
- Innovative Approach: We uniquely combine traditional equine therapy with energy work, offering a comprehensive healing experience.
- Diverse Impact: From children building confidence to adults processing trauma, our programs touch lives across the spectrum.
- Community Integration: We work closely with local schools and organizations, amplifying our impact beyond our facility.
- Sustainable Growth: Our track record of successful fundraising and program expansion demonstrates our commitment to sustainable, impactful growth.