Llamas del Sol
Grants Awarded
The Llama Your Way Outdoors Program engages disadvantaged youth and their families with New Mexico's landscapes using trained llamas. This accessible three-tier program, which involves introductory interactions, hands-on learning, and outdoor treks, bolsters empathy, stewardship, and self-confidence among the participants while teaching them about ecological principles, llama handling and survival skills. Apart from offering therapeutic interaction similar to equine-assisted therapy, the program creates opportunities for continued learning through internships and volunteer roles, ultimately promoting a deeper connection with nature and animal stewardship.
Founded in 2009, Llamas del Sol is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit llama rescue that offers llama adventures to the public while also expanding equitable access to the outdoors for youth and families across New Mexico. We work with underserved communities by creating welcoming, hands-on outdoor experiences that reduce economic, cultural, and knowledge barriers to participation in outdoor recreation. Through guided interactions with llamas, we introduce young people to nature in ways that feel safe, engaging, and culturally grounded. Our well-trained Llamas are uniquely suited to this work. Their calm, curious nature helps participants—often those with limited exposure to outdoor spaces—feel comfortable to new outdoor experiences. Through live educational demonstrations, field trips, and tours, youth learn how to observe and care for animals and how to respectfully engage with New Mexico’s landscapes which fosters stewardship and a sense of belonging in the outdoors. Our mission includes rescuing and adopting out llamas who are at multiple stages of on-going training. We partner with schools and community organizations reaching youth where they are. We work closely with Alameda and Horizons Elementary Schools, where 100% of students are low-income and more than 85% identify as BIPOC. Over the past three years, more than 350 students from these schools participated in school visits and field trips with our llamas. Llamas del Sol also provides volunteer and youth employment opportunities focused on animal care, rescue, and outdoor education, offering early exposure to outdoor stewardship and potential career pathways rooted in respect for land, animals, and community.