Generate and Grow Connection
History of Generation Farms
Generation Farms was founded by Deborah Marshall. In 2000, Deborah and her daughter Emily (Pelletier) McClure began to explore the emerging field of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. Both experienced horse owners, the power of the horse was something they understood intuitively.
The purchase of an East Wellington Generation Farms property, with the generous assistance of Robert Biss (father and grandfather) was the realization of a dream. It was a place for their horses to thrive where they can work to improve people’s lives through their connection with horses. Deborah and Emily hold common beliefs about what horses offer to people, and the quality of life horses deserve to enjoy. This has been the impetus behind creating Generation Farms. Four generations of their family have come together to generate this dream.
Generation Farms has matured into a close knit and thriving community of professionals and supporters. Well respected throughout Vancouver Island for client programs and nationally for professional training, it continues to refine and develop. The addition of Kate Burns MSW RSW as our nature specialist expanded the awareness of all involved. She has made a lasting contribution.
In 2016 Generation Farms relocated to a beautiful 33 acre facilty 20 minutes south of Nanaimo in the Yellow Point area. This is allowing for expanded programming and the natural movement towards a nature based and wilderness focus.
Deborah was also the founder and principal of the Counselling practice of Marshall and Associates in Nanaimo. Started in 1988, it continues to be a thriving practice until the closure of the office during the pandemic. All services now operate from the Generation Farms facility.