Foundation helps volunteers build hope
Horses of Hope a grant recipient
MACKEYVILLE, PA – Horses of Hope continues to serve people with special needs in a way few agencies can.
The nonprofit’s horses bring hope to those who ride … and bring light to their lives.
That was the dream Laurie Flanagan had when she began planning Horses of Hope in 2007.
Today, the organization continues to be supported with competitive grants from the Clinton County Community Foundation.
It began with a 16-acre farm in Pine Creek, thanks to friends and volunteers. The organization earned a 501c3 status in 2010 with three riders and “one beautiful horse named Pumpkin, Laurie said.
“As of 2023, we have six horses and approximately 60 riders each year. Our volunteer-run organization has 40 volunteers that include Veterans and military personnel,” added Amy Kowatch, outreach coordinator for Horses of Hope who also is a veteran.
“With help from the community, including the Clinton County Community Foundation and Clinton County United Way, we receive funds for sponsorships of riders and horses, building projects, instructor certification, and much more,” she added.
Here is the nonprofit’s mission statement: “Horses of Hope promotes the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being of those with special needs, to include our Veterans and military personnel, through equine-assisted activities. We strive to encourage individuals to meet their full potential, giving hope one individual at a time.”
Currently located at Belle Springs Farm outside Mackeyville, the agency’s activities include:
•Specialty Programs include: Therapeutic Riding (Riding lessons for individuals with a variety of special needs), Heroes & Horses (Honored Veterans and military personnel program created by Vickie Hancock), In-Hand Connection (Non-riding…Bonding through handling horses on the ground), and Community Riding (for those in our community that would like to take lessons).
•Volunteers include: Executive Director, Program Director, Board of Directors, Outreach Coordinator, Volunteer Coordinator, Horse Nutritionist, Horse Handlers, Feeding Coordinator, Caregivers, and Sidewalkers (for assisting certified instructors and participants).
•Member of PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) International.
Horses of Hope is currently looking for volunteers to help feed the horses.
If interested, contact Jodie Edwards at 717.609.2480.
Meanwhile, Horses of Hope and Heroes & Horses are holding a Cash Bingo fundraiser on Sept. 30 at the Red Eye Center on Canal Street in Flemington, with various prizes. Visit Horses of Hope’s Facebook page for more information.
