-I lost my sweetheart to brain cancer in March of 2024 after a long and difficult battle. Six months later, because I still wasn’t able to function, I signed up for a yoga retreat in Park City. During that retreat we visited Wild Heart Sanctuary for a meditation with the horses and I knew immediately that I needed to come back, somehow, because of how much peace I was able to feel there. Soon after, I was able to join as a volunteer with Tuesday morning being my set day. That winter, because of the compounded grief, adrenal exhaustion and agoraphobia I was dealing with, going to volunteer for the horses was often the only time I was able to leave my home each week. Being with and volunteering for those beautiful horses helped me want to live again - something that medication, a therapist, psychiatrist, EMDR, massage, ketamine and exercise hadn’t been able to accomplish. I’ve made, and will continue to make, my Tuesday mornings at Wild Heart one of my top priorities. I know without a doubt that I would have given up on life if I hadn’t found Wild Heart Sanctuary. -Leah Wild Heart Horse Sanctuary supported me during one of the hardest seasons of my life. In the aftermath of postpartum recovery, PTSD, and divorce, I felt disconnected from myself and overwhelmed in ways I didn’t yet have language for. What I found at the sanctuary was not something I could access anywhere else. Being with the horses allowed my nervous system to slow down and feel safe again. Their presence is grounding and a reminder that you can choose to open your heart even after devastating life experiences. Wild Heart Horse Sanctuary became a place where I could rebuild trust, reconnect with my body, and remember who I was beneath the trauma and the conditioning. Its impact on my healing is felt more deeply than words can convey. I am deeply grateful for this space and for the quiet, powerful way it supports people as much as the horses it protects. With Love and Gratitude, Cody Carter Seven years ago, a friend invited me to a yoga class at Wild Heart Sanctuary. I had never been around horses before, and connecting with these beautiful beings was life-changing for me. These majestic horses bring peace, strength, and a connection to the heart that I had never experienced before. Three months later, I started volunteering at Wild Heart, and it has been an honor to help care for these beautiful beings that were at death's door before Sonya took them in. The gratitude they have, along with the history of the wild mustangs they live among—through their joy and strife—is a gift I treasure every day. It is rare to find a place like Wild Heart where the public can come, experience, and leave with a gift of the heart. Love, Tracy F. Wild Heart Sanctuary is a deeply meaningful place of healing, reflection, and inspiration for so many in our community. I have personally experienced profound peace and restoration simply by spending time with the horses and the extraordinary land upon which Wild Heart exists. Sonya is truly a force of nature. She has been a tireless advocate and voice for the voiceless, while single-handedly creating and nurturing Wild Heart Sanctuary and serving as a devoted steward of the land. Due to her recent injury, however, she is in genuine need of continued support. Through her leadership, she has cultivated a dedicated team of volunteers whose commitment is essential to ensuring the horses remain safe, healthy, and cared for. Sonya is a thoughtful and reasonable person who has consistently shown a willingness to listen, collaborate, and find solutions when concerns arise. It is my sincere hope that the Wild Heart Sanctuary is allowed to continue thriving as a sanctuary for the wild and vulnerable, and that Sonya receives the understanding, freedom, and support she both needs and so richly deserves. Sincerely, Stephanie Barton Wild Heart Sanctuary is more than a place; it is where my spirit finds rest, and my heart opens in the presence of beings who know deep resilience. The horses, each with their own scars and stories of survival, have become teachers of trust and freedom, and being near them feels like coming home to something ancient and true. The land itself, quiet, sacred, and wild, holds a kind of peace I have been searching for, and every breath there feels like permission to soften. Sonya’s devotion and wisdom reflect a love that transforms both horses and people, and being part of this community as a volunteer and visitor has brought me some of the most profound connections of my life, connections to the herd, to others who walk this path of care, and to a part of myself that remembers how to heal and belong. -Kat The Wild Heart Sanctuary in Silver Creek, Park City, Utah is just that, a true sanctuary where people can come and rest with the most amazing wild mustangs.  These horses have all endured hardships no one can imagine. However, Sonya Richins has provided them with a home for life in safe, completely loving care.   My experience has stretched over the last several years as a volunteer. Each time I go to help feed and clean. I'm introduced to a calm, spiritual feed like no other. Some of the horses will volunteer to just be with me, giving me strength and complete oneness with this beautiful environment. Some of them are still very wild and give energy from afar. It is one of the most rewarding experiences.  Sonya has offered to share the horses with members of the community and with people from afar. She is relentless in the teaching and saving of wild mustangs. We know that they are being sent to kill pens, and we are at a crossroads to save the last in the wild. This is a place to see and touch one of the few remaining wonders of the wildhorse world.  Rebecca Hunt, May all mustangs be free  Wild Heart Sanctuary has provided a meaningful, supportive space that has positively impacted my personal growth and overall well-being, as well as that of many others who have participated in its programs. Time spent with the horses offers a calm, grounded environment that encourages reflection, awareness, and emotional balance. These experiences are especially valuable for individuals navigating life challenges, periods of change, or increased stress. What makes this sanctuary uniquely impactful is its focus on wild horses—animals that themselves have experienced displacement and hardship. Their presence fosters connection, patience, and resilience in a way that is difficult to replicate in traditional educational, recreational, or wellness settings. The sanctuary provides these programs with great care, professionalism, and respect for both the horses and the participants. Beyond my own experience, I have seen this sanctuary positively affect many others by offering a constructive, community-based setting that supports personal development and connection. Programs like this promote social engagement, personal responsibility, and emotional well-being, contributing to a healthier, more connected community.-Amy Mustangs Hearts at Wild Heart Sanctuary is a place that brings a person back when there is a void in their life. When a person loses their partner, they spent fifty-four years with, how do you keep going? After the passing of my husband, I needed to find a new path forward, to release my sorrow and live again. It’s been five years now. I started volunteering at Wild Heart to find joy with horses I have always wanted in my life. One thing led to another, life throws those curve balls, we get off track. Now I have a purpose again. I am the Chair on the board for Wild Heart Sanctuary. I have become a wild horse advocate to make a difference for our wild horse herds across the west and a steady helper, helping others in need with Sonya leading the way. A very special place for the world to visit. -Jannette Heckert I was first introduced to Wild Heart Sanctuary when one of my dear friends invited me to an outdoor sound bath -with rescued mustangs! I was intrigued. Walking into the grassy field, we were met by multiple horses, approaching us one at a time with a calm acknowledgment. One of the horses found the toggle on my jacket zipper, unzipped the outer layer, and pressed her face into my chest! I was overcome by a wave of emotion: a combination of positive energy, love, peace…I have been visiting the sanctuary on a regular basis ever since! I have some recent compromises with my health, so I am unable to volunteer…but the horses continue to lift me up and reset my metrics each and every visit. We all need this reminder of how we are all connected and how we can lift each other up…we just need to make the time for just a few minutes every day. Sonya’s welcoming and positive energy makes this possible…a safe refuge for the horses to live out their days, and a reminder to us humans that there is still a magical place that reminds us of kindness and connection to the wild. Thank you, Sonya, and thank you to the herd for welcoming me unconditionally. I hope I can give back to you and the horses and also pay it forward in my everyday life. Thank you! -Erin F. For over ten years, I’ve had the honor of teaching, volunteering, and being a guest at Wild Heart Sanctuary. This place is incredible dear to my heart. The energy of the wild horses is powerful and deeply healing, you feel it the moment you step onto the land. Wild Heart is essential not only for the horses it protects, but the entire community. It’s a space of connection, grounding, and quiet transformation. I’m forever grateful for all it gives to the horses, and to all of us. -Christa Jutras 
I am writing to respectfully request that you allow Sonya Richins, owner of Wild Heart Sanctuary (WHS), to continue offering her equine experiences to the public, as well as her volunteer programs. Wild Heart Sanctuary provides a meaningful and responsible way for the community to connect with horses in a safe, nurturing environment. These events not only foster healing and education, but also directly support the ongoing care of these extraordinary animals. All funds raised go toward the horses’ wellbeing and maintenance. I have been volunteer teacher sharing Qigong at WHS for over six years, and each experience has been deeply positive and impactful. Practicing outdoors, in the presence of these gentle beings, creates a powerful connection to nature that is profoundly healing for participants. It is my sincere hope that Wild Heart Sanctuary will be permitted to continue serving both the community and the horses in its care. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Sifu,Toni Lock, Chi Moments Testimonial: I led a gathering at the sanctuary last September, and the experience was profoundly impactful for both myself and the community who attended. The presence of the horses and the land created a grounding, therapeutic environment that supported emotional regulation, reflection, and connection in a way that indoor or commercial spaces simply cannot replicate. The event was held with great care and respect for the surrounding community, and I witnessed firsthand how thoughtfully Wild Heart operates in relation to neighbors, land use, and safety. Our group was deeply moved by the experience, and we were grateful to donate 100% of the proceeds directly back to the sanctuary in support of the horses and land stewardship. The sanctuary provided a meaningful community service, fostered mental and emotional wellbeing, and strengthened local connection, all while operating responsibly and respectfully. Spaces like Wild Heart are rare and invaluable, and I strongly believe they deserve continued support and protection. With gratitude, Jen Frodsham - NYC Wild Heart is a pillar in the community bringing connection between Humans and Horses. These mustangs and Sonya have welcomed all walks of life(wildlife and humans) to unite in one place for ultimate healing of mind, body and spirit. They are respectful, kind and compassionate. The horses have many times been my teachers for teaching Animal Reiki to my students. I am forever grateful for their wisdom and grace helping me to navigate through difficult times. It is imperative to the community for Wild Heart to be able to continue their spiritual work for the good of this planet. Thank you kindly. With Love and Gratitude. A Tempest Young I have been volunteering, visiting, and teaching yoga at Wild Heart Sanctuary for the last 5 years. This place is very special to many people including myself. It has become a safe place for horses and people to connect and feel joy. I look forward to going there because you are surrounded by nature and the beautiful views of Park City! Everyone leaves feeling more grounded, calm, and connected.  Lauren Lockey  Here is my experience at wild Hearts: The few times I’ve been there, my experiences have been nothing but uplifting and healing. I arrived during some of the darkest periods of my life, and being touched by the gentle spirits of these loving horses became deeply important and transformative moments for me. Sonya has created and facilitated something truly special. These horses are rescues, and the care and intention behind them are palpable. What she has built for both the horses and the wider community is a place that genuinely leaves the world better than she found it, offering hope and healing in an otherwise turbulent world. Much love, Jackie  My experience at the Wild Heart Sanctuary has never been anything but magical. I was first introduced to this place as a therapeutic practitioner and then my relationship with the horses and all that this ranch represents grew over the years. Sonya’s love of these beautiful creatures, the land and the cause is deeply touching. It’s a peaceful healing experience every time I visit and I look forward to many future visits to Wild Hearts Sanctuary. Gail Walker Sonya, your place means the world to me and my family. These horses are so incredibly special. They have such healing powers and make you feel so much better, lighter and calmer just standing next to them. My heart rate slows down so much that you are kind of in a state of complete relaxation. I volunteer as much as I possible can to be near the horses. This place is absolutely peaceful and quiet, so so special. Thank you Sonya for sharing this place with us.❤️Susan, Mark and Ben I didn’t realize when I picked up the summer edition of PC Style just how much my life was about to change. I signed up for a yoga class, fell in love with the mustangs and the magic of being so close to them, and began volunteering. Wild Heart Sanctuary quickly became more than a place to bond with horses — it became where I found my tribe. Through another volunteer, I was introduced to an entire community of women who welcomed me with open arms. My time with the mustangs does deep, grounding work on my soul, and Wild Heart itself helped me find my place — and my people — in Park City. -Melissa What Wild Heart Sanctuary means to me: It feels like coming home to a safe haven, a place of healing and connection. It’s about witnessing and sharing presence with such honorable humans and animals. The horses who call this place their forever home have been through unimaginable times and have been given the chance to call Sonya and these grounds their safe haven. It’s a privilege to visit such a sacred space. I am endlessly grateful to Wild Hearts Sanctuary for changing my life and bringing me closer to myself and peace. -Mandy Belen  I enjoyed every minute at Wild Heart Sanctuary. Surrounded by natures beauty and American mustangs, it’s a unique and beautiful place. Everyone I met was so kind and the yoga class and sound bath was amazing! Nina Alexander I cannot describe the majestic beauty of these animals and the peace that surrounds you during your time at the sanctuary. I was in awe of the inquisitive, gentle nature of the animals and the gathering of like-minded souls who both work there and come to experience the classes.-Jorinda "I discovered Wild Heart at a time when I needed to heal, reflect, and reinvent myself. Through Horse Journey Yoga and volunteering, I have reconnected with my own sacred heart. Co-creating unforgettable, transformative experiences in connection with eight beloved mustangs in a magical, natural setting infuses me with an energy like no-place else. Come to Wild Heart to find wholeness with the horses who seek refuge in this place of peace. Don't be surprised if you see cranes, hawks, coyotes, elk, deer, prairie dogs, and the innocent childlike beauty you forgot to notice in YOU." ~Elisa Stone You and I will forever be bonded over our love of wild horses, our planet and ethical, humane treatment of all animals. And I...I am blessed beyond words to have been taught by the 8 noble, magnificent, beautiful horses that you call your children. Without them...I would never have learned the deep connections that can be forged...without a single word. I am eternally and forever grateful to each of them and to you for inviting me into your odessey of love for them. We can make a difference ans no matter how deflated, defeated, sad or angry I feel about it...I will fight for them until I am dust. -Shauna Mustegango Wild Heart Sanctuary has been so much more to me than a place that protects animals — it has been a source of hope, healing, and perspective in my own life. Seeing the compassion, dedication, and love poured into rescuing and caring for animals who have suffered has deeply moved me and changed the way I see the world. Beyond rescue and rehabilitation, Wild Heart's advocacy work has opened my eyes to the urgent and often overlooked plight of America’s wild mustangs. By educating the public, speaking up for humane treatment, and giving these horses a voice, the sanctuary plays a vital role in helping people understand why their protection matters. This commitment to awareness and advocacy has strengthened my own sense of responsibility and deepened my respect for the work being done. Wild Heart Sanctuary reminds me that kindness matters, that second chances are powerful, and that even the most broken spirits can heal when they’re given patience, safety, and love. The stories of resilience that emerge from the sanctuary — and the larger mission to protect wild mustangs — have inspired me during difficult moments in my own life, helping me reconnect with empathy, purpose, and gratitude. Because of Wild Heart Sanctuary, I feel more connected — to animals, to nature, and to the idea that we all have a responsibility to care for those who cannot speak for themselves. Its impact on my life has been lasting, and I am deeply grateful for the rescue, advocacy, and education it provides every single day.-- Jane Fowler From the moment I stepped onto the sanctuary property and saw those horses, I felt like I was transformed into another world. Having lived in Florida most of my life, it was so magical to see the snow covered mountain peaks, the horses running free, and the herd dynamics. I felt such a sense of calm. The horses are so fortunate to have Sonya, their owner. She is truly their savior! —Carol Wild Heart Sanctuary- Everyone has their story- Sonya is the Narrator You are stepping on sacred land. It is a vortex. It is a Sanctuary for wild horses that have been captured and suffered from abuse. You think I’m going to do yoga with horses. Sounds cool. Sounds healing. Doing yoga on the high-vibrational land is PROFOUND. It is not just yoga; It is energy healing that I cannot find the words to describe. The mare Noble moon holds space for the circle. She inhales and exhales with you. 3 friendly “barn” cats congregate together with the herd, and Newt, the Aussie Shepherd, is certain that it’s all about him, lying on your blanket and loving the sunlight. Sonya tells the story of each Mustang. She has lived and told their story for years. It feels as if she has been there. Sonya's dedication to the mission of saving the Mustangs from abuse and slaughter is beyond inspiring. There is real love, real dirt that is clean earth, connectedness to nature, and to other humans. This is wholeness and holy. -Deborah Dworkin Every time I visit Wild Heart Sanctuary, I experience upgrades on multiple levels. There is so much to enjoy, from yoga and the sunset to the sounds of nature and spending time with the healing horses. Each visit to my favorite place boosts my energy, spirituality, and emotions! The wise mustangs have a remarkable ability to heal, and I’ll always be grateful for the mustangs, the sanctuary, and Sonya!” -Tanja "My experience at Wild Heart Sanctuary was transformative. During my morning meditation, I opened my eyes to find a tribe of nine wild mustangs surrounding me in a protective embrace.  In that magical moment, it felt like every star in the universe connected through these magnificent beings, genuine channelers of wisdom for humanity. So, I listened from the depth of my Soul and felt their voices speak directly to my heart, imparting profound insights that reached far beyond words. In that instant, I discovered a forgotten language—a deep understanding that awakened my spirit."-Frank Lane, author  "Since my first experience at Horse Journey Yoga at Wild Heart Sanctuary, I have felt a strong urge to let others know about the peace, love, and magic of these beautiful beings. Their spirits have helped me sleep better at night and have brought me great peace in their presence." —Stan. I have been volunteering at Wild Heart Sanctuary for 4 years now. This is a place where peace, acceptance and a sense of community are felt from the moment you take the first step into the barn. This is MY personal sanctuary and the horses provide me more than I could ever do for them. I go there to help take care of the horses and upkeep the place and every time I’m able to ground myself, connect with nature and develop a bond with the horses that reenergizes me from within. I love my Saturdays at Wild Heart Sanctuary! Allison Fernández "Sonya, you and I will forever be bonded over our love of wild horses, our planet, and the ethical, humane treatment of all animals. I am blessed beyond words to have been taught by the eight noble, magnificent, beautiful horses that you call your children. Without them, I would never have learned the deep connections that can be forged without a single word. I am eternally and forever grateful to each of them and to you for inviting me into your odyssey of love for them. We can make a difference, and no matter how deflated, defeated, sad, or angry I feel about it... I will fight for them until I am dust." —Shauna   "I discovered Wild Heart at a time when I needed to heal, reflect, and reinvent myself. Through Horse Journey Yoga and volunteering, I have reconnected with my own sacred heart. Co-creating unforgettable, transformative experiences in connection with eight beloved mustangs in a magical, natural setting infuses me with an energy like no other. Come to Wild Heart to find wholeness with the horses who seek refuge in this place of peace. Don't be surprised if you see cranes, hawks, coyotes, elk, deer, prairie dogs, and the innocent childlike beauty you forgot to notice in yourself."  ~Elisa "Wild Hearts Sanctuary has been my source of peace and wisdom. I assist with Horse Journey Yoga, where the wild mustangs communicate telepathically, imparting wisdom from their hearts. Miss Sonya, who takes care of these mustangs, is incredibly intuitive; I believe she is a mustang in human form!  The time I spend at this sanctuary is invaluable, and words cannot capture the energy they exude. The best way to sum it up is that you must experience it. Every visit is magical, peaceful, and timeless! Sincerely, Eternally grateful, Lisa” The Wild Heart Sanctuary has been one of the most powerful and pivotal parts of my healing journey, as well as many, many others! The horses, the land, the nature, the connection that so many of us have felt is undeniable.  Sonya and her team have created such a beautiful and safe environment for all who attend the sanctuary.  I play sound healing and do guided meditations all over the Salt Lake Valley, and when I’ve done anything at the sanctuary, there is just a very different impact.  The horses are medicine, and they amplify the healing and community that so many folks need!  Sat nam, Kambria Davis Wild Heart Sanctuary is one of those rare places that feels like home the moment you arrive. There’s a deep, soul-level resonance to the land that’s impossible to put into words, yet immediately felt. Even after years of visiting, I still feel it every time I return—the energy of a place created with such care, intention, and devotion. What Sonya has brought into being is more than a sanctuary; it’s a sacred refuge that honors the wild spirit of the Mustangs and offers them a life of freedom, dignity, and deep respect.  Wild Heart Sanctuary is truly a place of heart, healing, and wild belonging. I have been volunteering with Wild Heart for the last three years and I can attribute the sanctuary to being that consistent force for good, peace, and inspiration that has made my life especially wonderful. As so much change in my own life has occurred, it has been formative for me to have a space to come to, learn about horse care, and give back . . . every week. The horses and Sonya feel like dear friends, at this point, and the greater community involved with Wild Heart gives me a sense of belonging. Having a role model like Sonya—a woman who has dedicated her retirement, her life, to caring for these horses and being a voice for the rights of the greater herds of the West and beyond, has been such an inspiration to me.  Wild Heart Sanctuary serves as an example of what I hope our world continues to become—full of spaces that are centered on love, rooted in nature, and absolutely involved with the community. Much love, Loren -- .loren brunken .801.903.3499. Donor Comment: I live in California and I came to horse Yoga there while my husband was in a business meeting. It healed me more than you’ll ever know! I wish we lived closer. I would be there every day to help volunteer. To Whom It May Concern, I am writing in regards to Wild Heart Sanctuary, Sonya Richins and the wild ones (the mustangs).  When I first discovered Wild Heart back in 2019, I was in the midst of a dark, emotional place in my life. A dear friend of mine had suggested I make a visit to the sanctuary and spend some time with the mustangs, which of course, I did.  What I could have never predicted, was the grand impact this sanctuary would have on my life. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with open arms from Sonya (the founder) and her herd of mustangs (as well as Newt - her pup and the barn kitties). The first mustang to approach me was Noble Moon. She eased her way closer to me the moment I stepped through the gates, placed her head down my chest and stayed there, holding space with me for over 10 minutes. Everything I had needed to feel, to face, came flooding to the surface and I wept. Noble Moon didn't leave me. She took all of the energy I was feeling, the emotions and she sat with me... grounding with me, feeling alongside me. Little did I know, THIS was everything I needed. A SAFE space to heal, to feel, to ground.  Kokopelli came to me next and it was a similar situation, he stood with me, filling my heart space with so much warmth. It's a feeling I cannot begin to describe. I spent hours there that day and knew I had found a safe haven, no matter what I was going through in my life.  I learned the story of how this sanctuary began, I learned the stories of each of the mustangs and all the trauma each of them had been through. How Sonya had rescued each one of them and brought them here to this land to heal and know they were protected through the remainder of their years. To be so selfless for an animal that can't speak or defend themselves is the most beautiful thing. To provide such a space for these mustangs meant Sonya had much to take on for them, from feeding, to safe keeping, vet visits, and so much more--an endless list of needs and volunteers to help her accomplish this.  I, myself, being a yoga instructor, volunteered my time to offer an evening of yoga with the mustangs to help bring money in to assist her in providing. My first class had so many people supporting the horses, and everyone who came left feeling so touched, honored and are still, to this day, frequent visitors of the sanctuary--because that's what it does for people. It is a space for all of us to heal, to feel something outside of ourselves and to be a part of change in this world. Supporting these wild ones not only helps them, it helps us as humans as well. It's a necessary good in this world that is so filled with hate these days. And these mustangs deserve this second chance at life in a peaceful place. Words do not express enough what Wild Heart Sanctuary has meant to me and to so many others. To say it's "a gift" does not even begin to suffice. It's far more than just a piece of land with mustangs on it, it's a place where people and animals connect, heal, grow, and do better in this world, together.  All the love. Ariana 801-556-2063