About

The Barn at Spring Brook Farm is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located on a 17‑acre farm in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Our mission is to enrich the developmental skills and lives of children with disabilities through animal‑assisted and nature‑based experiences. We serve children ages 2–17 with physical, cognitive, and developmental disabilities, and we are one of the few organizations in the Greater Philadelphia region offering these unique services.

Our barn is home to 18 small farm animals who “work” alongside our staff and volunteers. During their time at The Barn, children and teens feed, walk, and groom these furry partners. Through these interactions, they often form meaningful bonds that are both empowering and life‑changing. These relationships break down barriers, allowing children to relax, explore, and simply be themselves. As they care for the animals, they step into the role of caretaker—building confidence, independence, and essential life skills.

Beyond our animals, we encourage children to explore our beautiful grounds and connect with the natural world. Our Outdoor Learning Center includes sensory gardens, raised vegetable beds, a musical soundscape, mud kitchens, an accessible treehouse, and open fields for games and sports. These environments allow children with disabilities to engage in hands‑on, adapted science and nature activities that set our programming apart from more traditional learning experiences.

Check out our video to learn more!

Mission:

To enrich the developmental skills and lives of children with disabilities through animal-assisted and natured-based experiences.

Vision:

The Barn strives to be the leading, regional organization and resource committed to providing children with disabilities and their families a nurturing and interactive, animal and nature-based experience that brings joy and inspires them to pursue their best lives.

Guiding Principles:

  • Integrity – We are honest and ethical in management practices, stewardship of resources and programming for children, families and volunteers.
  • Quality – We engage in continuous learning about children with special needs and animal-assisted activities, and we provide a safe environment for staff, volunteers, children and their families.
  • Impact – We strive to make a measurable difference in our community and hold ourselves accountable to all we serve.
  • Equity – We treat all children as individuals with unique qualities and unrealized potential.
  • Respect – We treat everyone with dignity and compassion.
  • Confidentiality – We restrict access to information about children, their families and our donors.
  • Passion – We believe deeply in the unique bond between animals and children.

PLEASE NOTE WE ARE NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

If you are interested in the programs and services we provide, we would be happy to show you around. To schedule a Barn tour, call 610.793.1037 or email us at [email protected].