ABOUT US
The mission of the Foundation is to promote and fund partnering with animals (including but not limited to: horses, dogs, and cats) for clients of all ages who could benefit from animal-assisted psychological services regardless of their ability to pay.
FUNDRAISING EFFORTS
Fundraising efforts are needed to provide programming by EAGALA certified practitioners, client scholarships, and to care for animals.
Animal-assisted psychotherapy is provided, in a variety of settings, and may be group-based or individual in nature. The process is documented and evaluated, and the animal is an integral part of the treatment process.
Horse Powered Growth and Learning programs include programs related to students becoming more intrinsically motivated learners. Animal-assisted activities are delivered in a variety of environments by specially trained and certified professionals, working with animals that meet specific criteria.
Programming includes: social skills groups for youth; young women’s group; young men’s groups; family groups; groups for youths and adults with PTSD; parenting groups; and horse-powered learning (tutoring).
Funds raised will also support programs to raise, feed, and care for the animals utilized in the work, including veterinary, farrier, stable, pasture care, and other services necessary to provide for the wellbeing of the animals.
ABOUT THE EAGALA MODEL
EAGALA model psychotherapy is a relatively new treatment approach in which horses are used as tools for emotional growth and learning.
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, or EAP, is a treatment modality where humans and horses partner together for optimal client outcomes. It is a collaborative effort between a licensed psychotherapist, a horse professional, and at least one horse.
EAP addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs including behavioral issues, attention deficit disorder, PTSD, substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and communication needs.
EAP is NOT Hippotherapy or therapeutic riding. The focus of EAP is not riding or horsemanship. The focus of EAP is providing mental health services.
MEET THE BOARD
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Matt Nigbur, Board PresidentWork Place: Coulee Bank Doug SchommerCredentials/Degrees: University Wisconsin Parkside Kenosha Work Place: Visiting Angels Community Outreach Marketing director Achievements/Awards/Certifications: BNI Member since 2007 Rochester Chamber Ambassador since 2014 Score Mentor from 2014 to 2018 Board member Cronin Home from 1999 to 2015 Served as President for 3 of those years Why I chose to join the board: I myself have experienced the challenges of mental health as well addiction issues and have lost family members to mental health issues. I firmly believe in what HOPE Ranch stands for and have an interest in helping Kit and her organization continue to grow. |
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Char OsmundsonWork Place: Mayo Clinic Why I chose to join the board: HRF has a very special meaning to me. I’ve been an animal lover my entire life. I was incredibly fortunate to be part of a family of horse lovers and to experience a special bond with a few horses throughout the years. When a family member was struggling to make sense of some challenging curve balls thrown her way, HOPE Ranch is where we landed because animals were always a form of therapy for me (even though I didn’t know it was really therapy at the time). On the tough days, the animals sat there quietly while she pet them and the tears flowed or they would do something silly to make her laugh. The animals never judged, they were simply there for support. It’s an amazing foundation. It’s an honor to be part of something that is able to make such a difference in so many people’s lives. |
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Sheryl BarlowCredentials: CEO Owner of Barlow Business Services, LLC, Author, and Speaker Why I chose to join the board: The work being done at HOPE Ranch is like no other and the individuals involved are incredibly committed to the mission, the clients, the animals, and the community. The entire organization has incredible heart and dedication. I am here to do whatever I can to help with this amazing organization. |
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Kathy A Lessard, TreasurerCredentials: Vice President/Investments at Stifel (11 years), CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER TM certification, CPA (Certified Public Accountant), Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting, University of Northern Iowa. Why I chose to join the board: Animals have always been a part of my life. I have horses, a dog, and a few barn cats. I know the gift an animal can give. I am happy to support this organization that has so much to give to those in need.
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Serving as an advisor to the board at the request of the board
Kit MuellnerCredentials: CEO & Founder of H.O.P.E. Ranch, Clinical Director and Psychotherapist, LICSW – Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, EAGALA Certified Psychotherapist Horse Specialist Education & Degrees: Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, Business, and Spanish from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, Masters (MSSW) in Clinical Social Work from the University of Wisconsin, Madison |
Interested in serving on the Hope Ranch Foundation Board? Call or email us today 507-281-3033, secretary@hoperanchteam.com
