Meet Daryl Fletcher | Equine Specialist – ESMHL Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning

We had the good fortune of connecting with Daryl Fletcher and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Daryl, how does your business help the community?
SOOFA Ranch, a therapeutic equestrian center focused on mental health and personal development, significantly impacts both youth and adults by addressing some of today’s most pressing mental health challenges. As a nonprofit, we are on a mission to empower individuals to live their life to its fullest potential, by utilizing equine assisted activities as a transformative tool for personal growth and emotional resilience.

The mental health crisis affecting our community is alarming, with mental behavior disorders in youth increasing by 17% over the last decade, and a significant number of adults also grappling with mental health issues. At SOOFA Ranch, we offer a supportive therapeutic space for this that struggle in silence, and can find help. Alarmingly, 80% of these individuals typically never receive the assistance they need for mental health challenges. We aim to bridge this gap through our therapeutic programs.

Equine assisted therapy, the cornerstone of our approach, is more than just interacting with horses. It involves structured activities that foster emotional stability, physical strength, and overall mental well-being. This form of therapy has been recognized for effectively instilling confidence, empathy, and a sense of responsibility, which are essential for both personal and community wellbeing.

The economic and social implications of unaddressed mental health issues are vast. For example, in 2019, mental health problems cost U.S. corporations approximately $83.6 billion. In Georgia alone, where incarceration costs around $19,977 per inmate annually—many of whom struggle with mental health challenges—programs like ours not only save funds but also enhance lives and community safety.

In 2023, more than two thousand individuals, including both adults and youth, participated in our equine-assisted activities, highlighting the widespread need and positive impact of our services. Our programs specifically target those who are most in need yet often have the least access to transformative resources.

At SOOFA Ranch, we are dedicated to being a catalyst for positive change, helping individuals of all ages to navigate life’s challenges and embrace opportunities for growth. Through our efforts, we not only address immediate mental health needs but also lay the groundwork for healthier, more resilient communities. We believe in the power of horses to unlock the potential within us all and are committed to extending the reach of this powerful therapy to everyone who can benefit from it.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
SOOFA Ranch stands out among equestrian centers as the first minority-owned ranch in South West Metro Atlanta that specifically focuses on mental health and youth development through Equine Assisted Activities and Therapy. As a trailblazer in this field, my journey to certification was unique; I was the only person of color and the only male in my class. Remarkably, only 4% of equine specialists are persons of color, highlighting the significant need for more diversity within this sector. Our presence in this field not only represents an opportunity for more minorities to enter this area but also to influence it positively.

SOOFA Ranch is on an exciting path to construct the Ride Strong Multi-Use Community Center—a facility designed to deepen the transformative connection between humans and horses. This center will feature:

– **Indoor Riding Arenas**: Enjoy riding year-round in our climate-controlled arenas, perfect for any weather.
– **Equine Therapy Suites**: These tranquil spaces provide the perfect setting for effective one-on-one therapy sessions.
– **Educational Classrooms**: Expand your knowledge with classes on equine care, mental health, and personal development led by experts.
– **Serene Outdoor Trails**: Experience the beauty of nature on our peaceful trail rides.
– **Community Spaces**: A welcoming area for community members to gather, share experiences, and support each other.

This new facility will elevate our existing programs, allowing us to offer:

– **Youth Leadership & Development**: Cultivating young leaders who are confident, cooperative, and resilient.
– **Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy**: Combining professional therapy techniques with the empathetic nature of horses.
– **Community Riding Programs**: Making equestrian sports accessible to beginners and experienced riders alike.
– **Veteran & PTSD Support Programs**: Providing tailored support to veterans, helping them find healing and purpose.
– **Inclusion Rides**: Ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can experience the joy of horse riding.

The impact of our new center will be profound:

– **Wider Reach**: We aim to engage over 1,000 additional individuals each year.
– **Deepened Connections**: Introducing 500 new people to the therapeutic benefits of equine activities.
– **Enhanced Support**: Doubling our capacity to deliver mental health services to those in need.
– **Professional Development**: Training over 100 professionals in equine-assisted therapies, expanding expertise in this niche field.

Our journey hasn’t been without its challenges, including displacement and the rehoming of 16 horses due to failed real estate transactions and encounters with racism. Despite these obstacles, we have persevered, embodying the resilience essential to entrepreneurship. Our mantra through all trials has been clear: never give up and never surrender.

At SOOFA Ranch, we are more than just an equestrian center; we are a symbol of hope and an agent of change in the community, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future in equine therapy.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

If my best friend were visiting Metro Atlanta for a week, I’d ensure they experienced the vibrant culture, delicious food, and fun activities that make this area unique.

Monday: Welcome to Atlanta!
Start the week with a delicious brunch at Table 25, known for its exquisite crab cakes that are all crab, no filler. Spend the afternoon exploring the Atlanta Botanical Garden to enjoy the lush landscapes and innovative plant collections. For dinner, dive into the flavors of Thailand at Siamese Basil, known for its authentic Thai dishes.

Tuesday: Atlanta’s Rich History
Begin with a visit to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, exploring Dr. King’s childhood home and the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church. Lunch in the Sweet Auburn district, enjoying soul food classics. In the afternoon, check out the Atlanta History Center. Dinner can be at one of the trendy restaurants in the Buckhead area, followed by a casual evening stroll through the upscale neighborhoods.

Wednesday: Arts and Culture Day
Head to the High Museum of Art in the morning to witness a fantastic collection of contemporary art and classic works. Have lunch at a café nearby, then spend the afternoon in the funky and eclectic neighborhood of Little Five Points, where you can shop for unique finds and vintage clothes. For dinner, enjoy some live jazz and dinner at a club in Midtown.

Thursday: Outdoor Adventure
Take a day trip to Stone Mountain Park. Hike up the mountain for breathtaking views, enjoy the scenic railroad, and have a picnic by the lake. As the sun sets, watch the famous laser show projected onto the side of the mountain—a truly memorable experience.

Friday: Culinary Delights and Nightlife
Explore the food stalls and markets of Ponce City Market for lunch. Spend the afternoon on the Atlanta BeltLine, a perfect spot for walking and experiencing Atlanta’s vibrant outdoor culture. For dinner, indulge in some Southern comfort food at a local favorite. End the night with a visit to a rooftop bar to enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline.

Saturday: Sports and Leisure
If it’s the season, catch an Atlanta Braves game or see Atlanta United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Alternatively, visit the College Football Hall of Fame. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a brewery, where you can sample local beers and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere.

Sunday: Relax and Unwind at the Ranch
Spend a peaceful day at the ranch, starting with a morning of horseback riding, soaking in the natural beauty and tranquility. For lunch, have a picnic on the ranch grounds. In the evening, go to Cascade for some old-school roller skating to end the week on a playful note.

This itinerary combines relaxation with exploration, offering a taste of everything that makes Metro Atlanta special—from its historical sites and lush gardens to its vibrant culinary scene and lively nightlife.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe immense gratitude to various members of my family who have shown unwavering support and love over the years, each playing a pivotal role in my journey and that of SOOFA Ranch.

Firstly, my wife deserves a special mention. Throughout my entrepreneurial endeavors, she has been a pillar of constant support. Despite the inevitable challenges we’ve encountered, she has continually encouraged me, allowing me to lead our family on this journey. Her positivity and engagement have been crucial as we navigate the road to success.

My mother has also been instrumental, particularly during a difficult transitional period for our ranch. When our horses and operations faced significant challenges, she generously opened up her bed and breakfast property to SOOFA Ranch, allowing us to run our activities there for nearly a year. This act of kindness provided us with the necessary space to regroup and rebuild.

My brother and sister have also been steadfast in their support. Their belief in my dream, even during times of uncertainty, has been a source of motivation and reassurance.

I must also express my appreciation for my children, who have believed in me even when the path seemed unclear. Their faith during the less certain times has been a beacon of hope and has driven me to persevere.

Additionally, the volunteers at SOOFA Ranch have been nothing short of remarkable. These dedicated individuals believe in the vision of SOOFA Ranch and commit their time, energy, and resources to help us succeed. Their contributions are invaluable, and we could not achieve our goals without them.

Lastly, the supporters of our organization, whose encouragement and backing allow us to continue our work, deserve recognition. Their support fuels our mission and enables us to reach more individuals in need of our services.

Each of these individuals plays a crucial role in the fabric of SOOFA Ranch and my personal journey, contributing significantly to our collective success and growth.

Website: www.soofaranch.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soofaranch/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soofaranch/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RanchSoofa

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SoofaRanch/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQwH6CT1zyAtvxZuH_J4pdA

Image Credits
I certify that I have rights to use these images. Images are from my personal collection