Founded with Purpose
Wildground was founded by MaKenna Arrigo, who has over 18 years of professional experience working with children, adolescents, and families. MaKenna is a doctoral candidate in Marriage and Family Therapy at National University and holds a Master of Social Work from Boston University. Her background spans crisis response, outpatient mental health, school-based services, and healthcare systems — giving her a deep understanding of what families truly need to thrive.
Wildground was born out of MaKenna’s vision to create a supportive alternative to the clinical mental health model — one that prioritizes prevention, relationships, and deep human connection. The Wildground offers a nature-based enrichment program designed to reclaim the lost art of childhood. Through free, unstructured play, exploration, and gentle guidance, children are given space to grow, regulate, and thrive outside of diagnostic labels.
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This holistic approach recognizes that healing and growth happen in community, in nature, and in the everyday moments that honor who children truly are.
Meet Our Herd
Star, Tango, and Sailor
At Deer River Wildground, our horses are more than just animals — they are partners in healing, teachers of patience, and living examples of resilience. Each one has a story that reflects strength, survival, and the beauty of second chances.
​Star is a graceful Arab/Morgan cross with a quiet wisdom in her partially blind eyes. She came to us by chance when she found herself without a home, and she's been part of our family ever since. Gentle and intuitive, Star is a grounding presence in our herd.
Tango is a completely blind Standardbred whose past includes time on the racetrack and years of hard work in an Amish community. Now, he thrives in the safety of our pastures, guided by his equine companions and the trust he's built with his human caregivers. His journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of connection and trust.
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Sailor is a striking Paint mare rescued from an auction. She has a big personality and a bigger heart. Outgoing and confident, she loves engaging with people and isn't shy about claiming her role as the paddock boss. Sailor’s spirit brings joy and energy to all who meet her.
Together, these horses live out their days in peace and purpose, offering their presence to those who visit. Through therapeutic connection and nature-based experiences, our rescued horses help others find healing — all while enjoying the forever home they so deserve.
Meet Our Nature Guides
Rooted in Childhood. Guided by Compassion.
At Wildground Enrichment, our guides are the heart of the experience. We believe that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and known — not just as a student, but as a whole person. That’s why our team is made up of deeply compassionate educators and caregivers with extensive backgrounds in early childhood development and nature-based learning.
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Who We Are
Our guides are:
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Experienced Early Childhood Professionals
With backgrounds in preschool teaching, homeschooling, early intervention, and special education, our team knows how to support children with diverse needs and developmental stages — especially during the formative early years. -
Warm, Relational, and Present
We prioritize building trusting relationships through empathy, active listening, and play. Children thrive in environments where they feel emotionally safe, and that’s exactly what we provide. -
Nature-Loving Mentors
We aren’t afraid of a little mud or a lot of wonder. We guide children through meaningful outdoor experiences that awaken curiosity, build resilience, and foster lifelong connections to the natural world. -
Regulation-Focused and Trauma-Informed
Our staff understands the importance of co-regulation, consistency, and compassion — especially for children who need extra support with transitions, emotions, or behavior.
What Makes Us Different
We’re not just supervising kids — we’re walking beside them. Whether it’s building forts, storytelling around a fire, or exploring animal tracks in the snow, our guides are co-learners and gentle leaders, encouraging each child’s unique rhythm, voice, and spark.
We believe that play is not a break from learning — it is learning. And we’re here to protect and reclaim that truth for this generation.