Anam cara farm and learning center

Nestled in Abbotsford’s pastoral Mount Lehman area, Anam Cara Farm and Learning Center rests on seven acres of gently rolling meadows and aged forest. This rural retreat is a place of healing and personal growth with space for workshops or team meetings. Owner’s Carla and Steve, share their home with horses, donkeys, sheep, Kune Kune pigs, chickens, dogs, and cats.

Since 2008 Anam Cara Farm and Learning Center is host to Unbridled Potential, Empowered By Horses, and Standing Six. With a philosophy founded on equine knowledge and herd dynamics these experiential programs heal, empower and enliven people of all ages. Whether you are new to partnering with horses or have been practicing horsemanship for years, Anam Cara programs and teachings are grounded in the practice of heart-centered leadership.

A lush green park with trees and grass under a clear blue sky.

Wooden exterior with a white window flanked by flowering hanging baskets. The sign above the window reads "ANAM-CARA." A red bench with white tree design is placed below the window.

A vibrant rainbow appears over a serene rural landscape with trees, a fence, and a building in the background.

A fenced riding arena with autumn foliage trees and a barn in the background. A white horse trailer is parked to the left.

An old wooden wagon sits under a large tree with sunlight filtering through the branches, near a gravel path and wooden fence.

Sunlight streams through dense trees, casting long rays and creating a serene, mysterious atmosphere in a foggy woodland scene.

A brown horse grazes under a large tree in a sunny pasture near a wooden fence and a barn.

A tall, green evergreen tree stands against a backdrop of a bright blue sky with a few other trees nearby.

Two large evergreen trees stand closely together with sunlight filtering through their branches. Grass and greenery surround the base of the trees.

A tall tree stands in the middle of a sunlit, grassy clearing, surrounded by other trees.

A person with long brown hair kneels in the grass, interacting with a brown horse in a sunlit field with trees in the background.

A black cat stands on moss-covered ground next to a large tree trunk, with a wooden fence and metal gate in the background.

Bringing the children to the Anam Cara Farms for a day of mindfulness and connection was a truly heartwarming experience. As the children and family services coordinator at the Abbotsford Hospice and Grief Support Society, I’ve seen the impact of loss firsthand, but witnessing these young hearts engage with the farm animals and find solace in their presence was profoundly moving. The gentle nature of the horses seemed to provide a unique kind of comfort, helping the children process their grief in a serene environment. It was a day filled with moments of reflection, laughter, and stillness. I am deeply grateful to have been part of such a meaningful experience. One of the children mentioned it was one of the “funnest day’s ever.” The children were supported throughout the day as different difficult conversations took place. Overall, the children left with a beautiful reminder of the stillness found in nature and the importance of cherishing the memories of loved ones

Rebecca Flaman

Empowered by horses is an amazing program. My daughter has attended this program with Mary Waldolf and I have seen great benefits in my daughter’s willingness to have social interactions. The amazing part is my daughter very much looks forward to going to see Mary and interacting with the animals. Mary makes this a warm, friendly and fun session that provides so much fun and the development of social skills and social connection. I cannot recommend Mary and this program enough!

Shaun McRae

Both of my children receive services from this place, seeing Mary and Jonathan. Both are amazing! They check in with me to make note of any struggles or concerns and plan their time accordingly. Both kids enjoy going here and working with the animals. I will add that any time my kids are in an appointment and I’m waiting, staff are friendly with a smile and wave. I would recommend their services.

Naomi Kragh