News

Work Place:

Thank you for your generous support of the H.O.P.E. Ranch Foundation.

Your response has brought HOPE to many individuals and families in SE MN through animal-assisted psychotherapy.

With your help, we are bringing lifesaving and life-changing therapy to those in need.

Martha Walters, a former client of H.O.P.E. Ranch, agreed to share her experience and observations of how working with the horses helped her.

“I remember our first session you took me out to meet the horses. We weren’t even inside the fence yet, and I threw my hands up in the air and the horse reacted. I didn’t even notice it, and you said, “Did you see that?” And we talked about it. I learned to be more aware of what I was feeling and doing, through the horses and you. I remember trying to lead the horse, Scooter. But HE led ME. He helped me become aware of my body language, attitude, and demeanor. When I learned to change those things, then Scooter allowed Me to lead Him.”

Martha Walters and Kit Muellner, founder of H.O.P.E. Ranch, wish to express their heartfelt gratitude for your support of the HOPE Ranch Foundation.

Your donation dollars will allow us to continue the Foundation’s work of supporting EAGALA model animal-assisted psychotherapy in SE Minnesota. EAGALA or Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association is a mental health treatment model that incorporates horses as partners in the therapeutic process. It offers a unique and experiential approach, where horses play a vital role in helping clients explore
emotions, build self-awareness, and achieve positive outcomes.

Every donation directly helps the clients, animals and staff of H.O.P.E. Ranch. Scholarships to clients, through programming and services, care of the animals, and expansion/maintenance of our facilities.

You can donate in one of three ways:

1.  Online at https://givebutter.com/21Euz6
2. Call the office at (507) 281-3033
3. Mail a check to the HOPE Ranch Foundation – 9145 80th Ave SE Suite B Chatfield, MN 55923

You can also help by volunteering your time at the H.O.P.E. Ranch.

Find out more about volunteer opportunities, call (507) 281-3033.

Warm Regards,

Terri Wintering
President of the Board and the H.O.P.E. Ranch Foundation Board of Directors

Supporting the HOPE Ranch Foundation 50/50 Raffle

At HOPE Ranch Foundation, we believe in the power of unity and compassion. Our upcoming 50/50 Raffle is not just a chance to win; it’s an opportunity to be part of a community-driven initiative that brings hope to those in need.

Event Details:

• Date: Friday, February 2, 2024
• Time: 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
• Location: Tavern 22 – 3401 Northern Valley Pl NE, Rochester, MN

What’s the Buzz About? This 50/50 Raffle is not your average event; it’s a night of philanthropy, support, and shared commitment to making a positive impact. Here’s what awaits you:

1. 50/50 Raffle Extravaganza:
   • Purchase your raffle tickets starting at 5:30 pm for a chance to win big! Half the proceeds directly benefit clients in financial need, helping them access animal-assisted psychological services.
2. Supporting Transformation:
   • Your involvement goes beyond a simple ticket purchase; it becomes a catalyst for change. Join us in making a real difference in the lives of those seeking healing through animal-assisted therapy.
3. An Evening at Tavern 22:
   • Immerse yourself in the warm ambiance of Tavern 22. It’s more than just a venue; it’s the setting for an evening filled with compassion, connection, and the spirit of giving.

Event Timeline:

• 5:30 pm: Ticket sales kick off – secure your chance to win!
• 7:30 pm: Drawing held – discover the lucky winner.

Official Rules: Before joining the excitement, visit our website to familiarize yourself with the official rules. Transparency is key, and we want every participant to feel confident about their involvement.

How to Get Involved:

• Purchase your raffle tickets at the event.
• Spread the word! Share our event with friends, family, and colleagues.
• Attend and experience the joy of contributing to a cause that truly matters.

Save the Date: Circle Friday, February 2, 2024, on your calendar, and be part of a night dedicated to hope, community, and making a lasting impact.

Your participation fuels our mission. See you there!

[official rules]

Lifting someone’s spirits over the holidays involves spreading joy, warmth, and support. Here are some thoughtful and effective ways to do that:

1. Send a Thoughtful Message: A heartfelt message expressing your care and good wishes can make a significant impact. Let them know you’re thinking of them during the holidays and that you’re there for them.
2. Create a Care Package: Put together a care package with items that bring comfort and joy. It could include their favorite snacks, a cozy blanket, a book, or even a holiday-themed movie. Tailor it to their interests.
3. Share Holiday Traditions: If possible, engage in or share your favorite holiday traditions with them. It could be baking cookies, watching a classic holiday movie, or decorating together. This can create a sense of connection and joy.
4. Offer Help: If they’re going through a tough time, offer practical assistance. Whether it’s helping with holiday preparations, running errands, or just being there to listen, your support can make a significant difference.
5. Organize a Virtual Gathering: If physical distance is a barrier, arrange a virtual get-together. You can play online games, have a virtual dinner, or simply chat and share laughter. It’s a way to create a sense of togetherness even when miles apart.
6. Volunteer Together: Spend time volunteering for a charitable cause. Helping others can be a powerful way to boost spirits, and it can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose during the holidays.
7. Surprise Gift: Send them a surprise gift that aligns with their interests. It doesn’t have to be extravagant; even a small, thoughtful gift can bring a smile to their face.
8. Share Positive Memories: Reminisce about positive memories you’ve shared together. Share photos, stories, or even create a scrapbook of good times. Reflecting on positive experiences can evoke feelings of warmth and joy.
9. Encourage Self-Care: Remind them to take care of themselves, especially during the busy holiday season. Encourage activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as meditation, a spa day, or a quiet evening with a good book.
10. Be a Good Listener: Sometimes, all someone needs is someone to talk to. Be a good listener, offer a sympathetic ear, and provide emotional support. Letting them express their feelings can be cathartic.

Remember, the key is to be genuine and considerate of the individual’s needs and emotions. Your efforts to lift their spirits can have a meaningful impact on their holiday experience.

We are happy to announce the sound of new hoofbeats at HOPE Ranch.

Joining our therapeutic team is Traveler (or Trav as we call him). He is here to bring hope to our clients.

Our equine partners play a pivotal role in helping patients navigate the path to healing, offering solace, connection, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

Meet Traveler

Breed:
A Buckskin Quarterhorse

Backstory:
From Dr. Ericka Tung and Dr. Tad Mabry (who also gave us Misty)
Has a stifle injury so can’t be ridden anymore. The doctors decided to give him to HOPE Ranch, a place where he could have a meaningful purpose in life.
He will be free to move about at his pace and is perfectly healthy.

Arrived:
July 15th

About:
Trav is super sweet and loves people. He has great manners and is enjoying his time at HOPE Ranch!

We welcome the sound of new hoofbeats at HOPE Ranch. Joining our therapeutic team is Tia. She brings not only grace and beauty but also hope.

Our equine partners play a pivotal role in helping patients navigate the path to healing, offering solace, connection, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

Meet Tia

Breed:
Paso-fino

Backstory:
Tia was rescued about 1.5 years ago by volunteer Jenna German and her friend, Sarita. After 6 months, Tia came to HOPE Ranch where she has her forever home.

Arrived:
July 22nd

About:
Tia’s had some tough times in her life so she is still a bit nervous but beginning to open up to people

At HOPE Ranch, the sound of hoofbeats heralds the arrival of newfound companions on a remarkable journey. These majestic beauties join our therapeutic team, bringing not only their physical presence but also a profound sense of hope. Here at HOPE Ranch, these equine partners play a pivotal role in helping patients navigate the path to healing, offering solace, connection, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

ABOUT ROXY:

Breed: A Chincoteague Pony.

Backstory:
Belonged to a woman who – Rebecca. Who trained
Her bloodlines go all the way back to Misty (from the book)
Black and a little bit bigger than Molly.

Arrived:
Saturday night – August 19th.

About:
Beautiful black with goldie – brown.
Roxy has great ground manners. Sweet but still a bit nervous.
She is getting used to her surroundings.
Loves people.