Hope Ranch Foundation
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.
Contact us at: admin@hoperanchfoundation.
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.
Meet the Board
Terri Wintering – Board President
Credentials:
BA College of St. Teresa 1973; J.D. William Mitchell College of Law 1977; Mediator since 1988
Work Place:
Attorney, Self-employed at Wintering Law Office – semi-retired.
Why I chose to join the board:
I am happy to volunteer, especially for HOPE Ranch.
Why I chose to join the board:
Having experienced the value of equine therapy in my own family, I wholeheartedly support the Foundation that provides for this therapy model at HOPE Ranch.
Sheryl Barlow, Board Vice-Chair
Credentials:
CEO Owner of Barlow Business Services, LLC, Author, and Speaker
BS Degree in Business and Marketing, AA Degree in Retailing, Social Media Certification, Inbound Marketing
Certifications:
Masters Course in Content Creation and Copywriting
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.
Jacob Mussell, Treasurer
Workplace:
Eagle Rock Bank- Credit Analyst- Rochester, MN
Education:
BBA in Finance and Economics, University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire
Jacob has a background in Finance having worked in Banking, Corporate Finance, and Financial Services. He joined the board because he enjoys helping people. He and his wife have two dogs, who they consider part of their family. Jacob knows how impactful animals can be on a person’s life and is thrilled to support the mission of HOPE Ranch.
Kay Tessum
Education:
BS from Winona State University 1970 French and Political Science.
Master’s Degree in Emotional Disturbance and Learning Disabilities from Mankato State University 1985.
Certification in Multicultural Diversity From St Catherine’s College 1990.
Awards:
Ashland Oil Teacher of the Year Award 1994
Rochester Education Association Teacher Award 1995
Work Place:
Rochester State Hospital Adolescent Unit School 1978 to 1981
John Marshall High School 1982 – 2010
Area Learning Center Alternate School 2005 to 2015 (Night School)
Why I chose to join the board:
My family and I have been involved in education and horses for many years. After my daughter left for college, and wouldn’t let us sell her horse, I decided I would learn to ride. Since that time I have ridden with a group to many states and places. Once we no longer wanted to haul our aging horses so far away, we started a group called the Gypsy Cowgirls. We now fly to a destination and ride great horses. We have ridden Gettysburg, The Biltmore in Ashville NC, and Tybee Island, Georgia. I chose to join the board of HOPE Ranch because it melds my two passions of education and horses. I feel that I still have skills and experiences that I can use and share with others.
Charlene Martin-Lillie
Work Place:
Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
Events Specialist
Why I chose to join the board:
After working on a fundraising committee for the last 2 years for the H.O.P.E. Ranch Foundation, I knew I wanted to be a part of the board. The compassionate people, the animals, and the beautiful ranch itself make this a very special place. I have witnessed the positive impact that horses (and other animals) can make on mental health within my own family. I want others to be able to have this opportunity; to learn, to grow, and to heal with the help of H.O.P.E Ranch. I am honored to be a part of the foundation.
Lauren Fryer
BA in Sociology, University of Minnesota – Duluth: Master’s in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota (expected graduation 2025)
Work Place:
Program Manager, Community Education & Engagement, Planned Parenthood North Central States.
Why I chose to join the board:
My experience with H.O.P.E. Ranch continues to serve as a major factor in my ability to pursue and maintain health and happiness in my life. Through the years, Kit and the animals have been integral forces in helping to navigate challenges and anxiety. I believe therapy should be available, accessible, and de-stigmatized for everyone.
- I am passionate about animal-assisted therapy and want to bring awareness to the possible benefits clients may experience.
- I am passionate about the fundraising efforts and the commitment to helping make animal-assisted therapy accessible for people as well as ensure the well-being of the animals.
- I am passionate about community and utilizing partnerships to build and maintain networks of care within our regions.
Caroline Baihly
BS in Biochemistry from the University of Arizona; MS in Biochemistry from the University of Minnesota; DVM University.
Work Place:
Retired DVM
Why I chose to join the board:
Since retiring, I have found that serving on a board is a way to help keep me interacting with people. Having had therapy dogs (currently two) for a number of years, I know the benefit of animals helping people.
Kit Muellner
Serving as an advisor to the board at the request of the board
Credentials:
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