Thursday, September 26, 2024 (5:30 pm)
OC Fair & Event Center unveils plans for The Ranch Community Center
OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC) is excited to unveil the latest expansion of its community give-back programs at its reimagined equestrian center, now called The Ranch Community Center.
The Board embraced a bold new vision and operating model for the property in January, focusing on broad community access, education, accredited equine-assisted therapy and free hands-on experiences with horses. The vision for The Ranch also includes continuing the existing boarding and training of privately owned horses at the 7.5-acre facility. Staff have been working to develop key educational, community and agriculture partners for the new public programs which will begin rolling out next month.
“In service of our mission to create equitable community access to agriculture, entertainment, cultural and educational opportunities, The Ranch will open the facility to a much wider segment of the Orange County community so our programs promoting equine education and experiences with horses will be within reach for all,” said OC Fair Board Chair Nick Kovacevich.
Key initiatives include:
· Equine exhibits
· The Ranch After-School Program
· Ranch Discovery Days, school tours and hands-on equine experiences
· Accredited equine-assisted therapy programs and services
· Educational partnerships
· Small regional horse shows and clinics
· Boarding and training of privately owned horses
Operating in concert with OCFEC’s other educational venues such as Centennial Farm and Heroes Hall, The Ranch will provide free or low-cost educational opportunities and experiences to the entire community year-round. Centennial Farm is celebrating its 35th anniversary of public service this year and welcomes The Ranch to the family of public assets.
The Ranch will debut engaging exhibits highlighting the history and heritage of horses and their contribution to California agriculture. These exhibits will feature information on horse care, breeds and types of horses, tack and equipment, horse uses, careers in horse and ranching industries, famous horses and much more.
OCFEC’s Ranch After-School Program has traditionally operated out of Centennial Farm, but will now have its new home at The Ranch. The program inspires youth from local schools to explore careers in agriculture by providing hands-on experiences with crops and animals. The public will also be able to participate in The Ranch Discovery Days where student groups, youth organizations, senior groups and community programs can engage with horses and learn about their care.
OCFEC will also be collaborating with many nonprofit and community groups to bring unique opportunities and experiences to The Ranch, including those providing licensed mental health services as well as those serving veterans and students interested in careers working with animals or agriculture. Each will work with OCFEC to create a vibrant hub of new and expanded opportunities where members of the public can learn about horses, experience their therapeutic benefits and enjoy engaging activities.
The Ranch, along with OCFEC as a whole, will continue to serve the community during emergencies, serving as a large-animal evacuation center and providing space and assistance as needed. Looking ahead, OCFEC is exploring innovative programs such as gardening for stress relief, clinics and demonstrations as well as agriculture and equine conferences.
“We look forward to inviting the community to The Ranch Community Center to explore, learn and connect with these beautiful animals,” said OC Fair & Event Center CEO Michele Richards.