The Happy Wings foundation visits schools and care institutions with her raptors and owls, to

give both disabled or seriously ill children and elderly an unforgettable experience. Even more

important, to have them experience their own possibilities instead of limitations, to show them

they are capable of more than they perhaps think themselves.

These visits come in the shape of an interactive workshop. Everyone can take part in his or her

own preferred way. Participants can actively assist, but if they prefer to simply be an observer,

than that of course is fine too. It regularly occurs that a child or an elderly person at first is

somewhat hesitant, but actively takes part after some time.

The visits are fully customized to fit the target audience and take place in a relaxed atmosphere

with full individual attention for everyone present. Every visit is unique.

The Happy Wings foundation does not put up shows or give demonstrations with their birds.

When birds are used during their activities, the wellbeing of the animals is one of the main

focuspoints. The foundation’s birds are so called ‘rescue birds’: birds that have been neglected

by previous owners or need sanctuary for other reasons. The birds that are adopted by the

Happy Wings foundation were bred in captivity and can therefore not be re-introduced into

nature. These birds find a safe haven at the Happy Wings foundation, where they can grow old

in peace. Only birds that are suited to participate in our visits and of which it is clear they derive

joy from it, are used. All birds get sufficient flight time (without leash, but with tracker) in nature.

Apart from these activies, the Happy Wings foundation also coaches a limited group of children,

teenagers and/or young adults with disabilities. This type of coaching is uniquely tailored to

aligne with the needs of the client. These clients learn how to care for the birds and how to work

with them. They accompany the falconer during the visits to a variety of care centers and help

him with his workshops and lessons. They each have their own tasks. In doing so, they learn

how to work independently and how to adjust their behaviour to the birds’ needs. This helps

them regulate their own behaviour and feelings, something that will be of benefit to them in

‘normal’ society. At the same time, it enhances their confidence and self-reliance.

Recently the Happy Wings foundation has started using a new location. This location still needs

a number of adjustments and investments but offers many possibilities for the future. Not only

will more clients be able to use that which the Foundation offers, this location will also be

available for clients with mobility issues, making it possible to enlarge the foundation’s target

audience. With all these developmens, the Happy Wings foundation is ready to take on the

future!