2015 Summer Issue - Wings of Hope Ranch
Transcription
2015 Summer Issue - Wings of Hope Ranch
h c n a R p u d n u o R Through hands on ex�erience in a safe and peacef�l environment, children facing conflicts and challenges come together with rescued horses to help each other lear� to love and t��st again. Summer 2015 Co-founder’s Message - Jane Yancey Have you ever, on a warm summer day been near a lake or a river and thrown a rock to see how many ripples you could cause with just one little rock, one small action? I am sure many of you have done this simple act of fun and found enjoyment in watching the response. On May 31st, Wings of Hope Ranch held its annual End of Season Potluck for ranchers, volunteers and family on a beautiful evening at the Ranch. It was a glorious sight to behold! We saw many old, as well as new faces at this social opportunity, which celebrated the positive memories and relationships that were created this past year. Everyone enjoyed a declicious feast that included hamburgers, hot dogs, side dishes and desserts! As I sat there on the picnic blanket, I looked around at all the men, women and children that had come to love the Ranch, and I began to reflect on how the Ranch began and to be amazed at the intricate quilt God creates with the lives of HIS people. As someone that has been involved with the creation and growth of Wings of Hope Ranch, I was humbled and awestruck to now be an observer to the immeasurable life changing miracles that have touched so many lives, by a simple act of faith. As 2 Corinthians 5:7 states, “For we walk by faith, not by sight,” so was the inception and creation of what is lovingly now known as Wings of Hope Ranch. In 2006, it was just a dream...a vision that Alison shared with a few. God, in his omnipotent intricate plan, connected these individuals and horses to radiate His glory to so many! Ephesians 3:20-21 reflects this call to action: “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen”. Each one of us, through the power of the Holy Spirit, are able to do far beyond all that we can imagine, not only in our own life, but in the lives of others! Just like that little rock that you held in your hand at the edge of the lake, you too can be a part of impacting the lives of so many through the simple act of serving as a volunteer at Wings of Hope Ranch! Please contact Wings of Hope Ranch, if you feel led to be served through such a ministry. If you are looking for a place that offers your child an opportunity to experience growth both personally and spiritually, Wings of Hope welcomes your call or email to receive further information about your child joining us next season! We can’t wait to see each and every one of you in the 2015 Fall Season. I am excited to witness the countless positive ripples that will take place through the simple act of each volunteer showing up to spend time with a child or a child loving on the horses that need them! God Bless! Inside This Issue Levi: A Mother’s Testimony............................. 2 From the Bunkhouse....................................... 2 Hoedown for Hope.......................................... 3 Letters to Samson........................................... 4 Salutorial......................................................... 4 WoHR Trail Ride............................................. 5 Montpelier Love.............................................. 6 Trailblazer Trot................................................ 7 Getting to Know Salvation............................... 7 Calendar of Events......................................... 8 A Wings of Hope Newsletter • P.O. Box 1674 • Ashland • Virginia • 23005 • 804.883.8903 • www.wingsofhoperanch.com Levi: A Mother’s Testimony Many of you may wonder about Wings of Hope Ranch’s impact on the ranchers. One mother, Michelle Harver believes the ranch has really helped her child. Michelle says, “I was sitting in the patio of the little white house, and I HEARD my son talking and giggling! It wasn’t quiet! He was clear as a bell! It brought tears to my eyes to see him so comfortable and confident, that he was speaking up loud enough that I heard him from a few hundred feet away!” She continues, “I also saw him joining his sister in showing the group how to do a sign language sign. He has been in four sessions (two years) at the ranch, and when he started, he was so incredibly shy. He still is in most situations, but being at Wings of Hope Ranch, has really drawn out his personality. You all have warmly welcomed him and given him patient encouragement, and he has just blossomed! Thank you so much for all you’ve done! We can’t wait to come back!” Joyce Foster, a Wings of Hope Ranch volunteer remembers that day too. “Levi and Lydia showed us the sign for “Holy Spirit. Love those two!” Skye Moss, Volunteer Youth Leader and Levi take a selfie while at the ranch! Skye Moss, a Volunteer Youth Leader says about Levi, “I loved working with Levi. He always had a smile on his face, which put a smile on mine! He taught me lots of new songs about Jesus, and would always tell me stories about himself and his family. I was so glad to be his helper this year, and I hope he continues to do great things with his life! He is a kind hearted young man and I hope for the best for his future!” Finally, Kathy Mullsteff, the ranch Volunteer Supervisor recalls, “The connection between Abby and Lydia, and Skye and Levi was amazing. God put the four of them together for a reason. “ Is there any doubt in anyone’s mind that God is at work at Wings of Hope Ranch? Not if you ask Levi and all who love him. (Compiled by Victoria Pinner) From the Bunkhouse MISSION Through hands-on experience in a safe and peaceful environment, children facing conflicts and challanges come together with rescued horses to help each other learn to love and trust again. Wings of Hope Ranch is a Christian organization that rescues neglected horses and rehabilitates them to provide a horse ministry, free of charge, to children facing conflicts and challenges. We strive for an environment where both volunteer and horse model God’s unconditional love and acceptance. We seek to love, encourage and share hope with everyone while providing a place where all people feel welcome, safe, and accepted just as they are. We pray the ranch is a place where children who come hurting leave each week seeing their true beauty, value, and self-worth. CONTACT 804.833.8903 ext. 2 www.wingsofhoperanch.org wingsofhoperanch@aol.com Wings of Hope Ranch 14505 West Patrick Henry Road Montpelier, VA 23192 Mailing Address P.O. Box 1674 Ashland, VA 23005 Wings of Hope Ranch is a Christian 501c3 non-profit corporation, an all-volunteer organization that relies solely on the generosity of volunteers and sponsors. These men, women and youth are the life-blood of the ranch and we could not operate without their time and resources. The Wings of Hope Ranch Herd Leaders, which consist of the board members and volunteers, who work to keep the ranch running smoothly, met on March 16, 2015. The meeting was productive, and the Herd Leaders lingered until the librarian almost gave them the boot. Ranchers can look forward to a good 2015 at Wings of Hope Ranch! -2- Would you consider becoming one of our volunteers or sponsors? Volunteer applications are available at www.wingsofhoperanch.org. e n e p n. n d e o s. e s e e e e, y o g . 3 er e e ot . ur at Letters to Samson Dear Samson, Do you have a girlfriend? Love, Wings of Hope Rancher s 2 Dear Rancher, I live with six very pretty girls but they are like my sisters. I did have a crush on the girl next door. They said her name was Anna. She was a beautiful Thoroughbred mare that I had hoped to ask out on a date one day... when I got the courage. Unfortunately, she left before I ever got my courage. N A Love, Samson P Salutorial Samson E E H C B What I learned from The Burrito Sisters I spent a lot of time with two donkeys this winter. Vicki and Dennis Pinner, volunteers at Wings of Hope Ranch, welcomed me to Stellani Farm, where I received some extra care and happened to make friends with these two donkeys. I nicknamed them the Burrito Sisters because out west they are called burros, and they always hung out together. They are equines, but they are not small horses. In fact, these donkeys thought they were special, and in a way, I guess they are. Did you know that every donkey has a cross on its back---even those on whose fur you cannot see the cross? I wondered why, and the Burrito Sisters were quick to let me know. Jesus sent his disciples to find him a colt to ride into Jerusalem. They were not able to come up with a colt, but instead they found a donkey who had been sorely mistreated by its owner. When the donkey was brought to Jesus, he soothed the poor beast and treated it kindly. The donkey proudly carried him into Jerusalem. Shortly after his ride, the donkey was with the disciples at the cross. It was so sad to see its master hanging on the cross. It turned to leave but couldn’t, and instead, it bowed its head. Darkness came across the land, and the shadow of the cross appeared on its back. To this day, all donkeys bear the shadow of the cross, and that’s what makes them special. Until next time, Salutations! Be well! -Sal tr st P c T M M Q -4- Burrito Sisters L G a b WINGS OF HOPE RANCH Trail Ride Registration Form REGISTER ONLINE AT: www.wingsofhoperanch.org November 7, 2015 OR fill out (1) set for each participant and mail the check, registration, signed release for each rider, a copy of your coggins before November 3, 2015 to join us on the trail ride or for lunch only. You can also email your name and fax your coggins to 804-237-0435 and pay at the door. Copy of original Coggins must be presented onsite. Name____________________________________________ Address___________________________________________ Phone (_______) ______________________ E- Mail___________________________________________ Emergency contact # (_______) ______________________ Horses Name: ___________________________________ Coggins Accession #: _________________________ Blood Drawn Date: ______________________ WINGS OF HOPE RANCH BENEFIT TRAIL RIDE November 7, 2015 Gates open from 9-4, lunch around Noon Wings of Hope Ranch is an equine ministry where children facing conflicts or challenges come together with rescued horses to learn how to love and trust again. For more information on our programs and services, and to meet our beautiful rescued horses, visit www.wingsofhoperanch.org. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! Per new laws, I have included a copy of my Coggins with this registration & agree to bring the original to the event to be checked by staff, before I am allowed to enter the facility with my horse. Proceeds benefit Wings of Hope Ranch and go directly to the children’s programs and horse care. Fees are non-refundable. Rider (+ lunch) early bird Rider (+lunch) on-site Rider (no lunch) Lunch Only (no riding) Donation to WOHR Total Amount Enclosed $ $33 ; $ $35 ; $ $25 ; $ $10 ; $______ $ ______ Make check payable to: Wings of Hope Ranch Mail to: Wings of Hope Ranch PO Box 1674 Ashland,VA 23005 Questions? Contact Martha Phone/Text: 804-690-0229 Email: Lunch Includes: Martha@wingsofhoperanch.org Grilled burgers (including veggie burgers) and hot dogs with all the fixins’, chips, cookies, beans, deviled eggs and ice cold beverages. MILLSTONE FARM, located in New Kent County VA, is a trail riders paradise! Enjoy over 800 acres of beautifully groomed and wooded trails with streams and some open fields for hacking out. The farm is not open to the public—accessed by invitation only to benefit organizations like Wings of Hope Ranch. Bring your friends to ride or just enjoy the serene beauty and lunch. Montpelier Love A story about Holly Lane Christian Jewelry We’ll never comprehend all the great things he does; his miracle-surprises can’t be counted. Somehow, though he moves right in front of me, I don’t see him; quietly but surely he’s active, and I miss it. Job 9:10-11 We frequently marvel at how God moves out before us in all aspects of our ministry. Over and over we see him piece together our next relationship, helper, financial supporter, horse, child, and volunteer; LONG before we know we need it. They contacted us, and we organized a field trip for the staff of Holly Lane Chrisitan Jewelry to visit the ranch in May, and the rest is HIStory! After meeting the horses, they agreed to sponsor Samson for an entire year: a huge commitment! For me, being a Christian is so much about surrendering to the roller coaster thrill ride of a life God has planned for me instead of walking out the sometimes subpar plans I have made for my own life. As an example of this unexpected blessing, this spring, God gave us a new partner in ministry: Holly Lane Christian Jewelry. Holly Lane Christian Jewelry is a nifty jewelry company, led by Tiffany Scott, owner, artist, and jewelry designer. While they are a national company, their offices and studio is right here in ole’ Montpelier, Virginia! A week or so later, we were blessed by Holly Lane Christian Jewelry again. Tiffany contacted me to tell me many of the staff were going to run in the Trailblazer Trot, volunteer at the race, and she had something AMAZING to share with me. I couldn’t wait until the Trot, and since we are so close to them, I stopped by their offices in Montpelier to hear more. Tiffany was asked to design a custom piece of jewelry for a special client anniversary. She never knows what to charge for this service so she let the customer know that Tiffany’s personal instead of paying a design testimony of “God had a fee, he could simply make better plan for my life than a donation to Wings of I did” uniquely matches Hope Ranch in an amount our experiences here at he felt appropriate. She the ranch. Her beautiful received a check in the mail designs reflect Christian for Wings of Hope Ranch themes, and each piece in the amount of $1,500! has a specific scripture We were all shocked and verse assigned. Tiffany amazed. This was a gift Holly Lane Christian Jewelry and Wings of Hope Ranch Volunteers says that her “sole from Heaven, one of our purpose is to create pieces largest single donations in that would help spark conversations about Christ!” She came to our history! We are so glad God connected these two groups of know God because others cared to share the Gospel with her people, anxious to serve God and be delighted in His ways and and never gave up. It is her hope that the jewelry she creates provision. allows people to be encouraged by God’s word and to give us opportunities to share Christ! We encourage you to visit and support www.hollylane.com and see the magnificent and meaningful pieces they have created with This spring, the team at Holly Lane Christian Jewelry discovered love and inspiration. several things about Wings of Hope Ranch. First, they discovered that Wings of Hope Ranch was a Christian ministry located three miles from their headquarters. Many of the Holly Lane Christian Jewelry staff members rolled by the ranch on their way to and Would your business like to help support children, horses, and from work daily, but it wasn’t until the first day of our spring families in need by making a tax-deductible donation to Wings of session 2015, when we posted a big sign pointing new ranchers Hope Ranch? in to the driveway, that they realized exactly where we were Contact Alison Boyd (804.833.8903 ext. 2 or wingsofhoperanch@ located. Second, they checked out our website, only to find that aol.com) for more information on donating or visit wingsofhoperanch. our guiding verse was Psalms 91:4 (NKJV) 4 He shall cover you org. with His feathers, And under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler. Coincidently, they had Wings of Hope Ranch is an approved 501c3 non-profit corporation. long ago designed a beautiful pair of silver earrings called “Under A financial statement is available upon written request from the: His Wings” and assigned our same scripture verse to this piece! Virginia Office of Consumer Affairs When they saw our guiding verse, they were divinely inspired to P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23216 reach out and support us. Alison Boyd -6- A b s B I b l m T H m w B a s h t t y o ail h d f @ . . Second Annual Trailblazer Trot The second annual Trailblazer Trot lived up to its name. The trail was blazing hot, but it did not disappoint. The property was so amazing and we felt as if we stepped onto a movie set. One attendee, T. Green said, “This race was held at a stunning, privately-owned property in the New Kent area. The course is mostly shady and the terrain is not too challenging. The race was well-run and for a great cause! Wings of Hope Ranch rescues horses and uses them in a Christian based program working with children with special needs. The venue has shower facilities so I’d recommend the race in the morning and then explore the area. There is a vineyard nearby as well as Busch Gardens, historic Williamsburg and Jamestown.” The rolling hills, woodlands, ponds, and beautiful outbuildings made this run varied and challenging. It began on a downhill, but that was just a tease as soon, the terrain changed, and the climb began. Eventually, it leveled to a wooded round-a-bout, then downhill and uphill again followed by a field trot and a finish that took our breath away. At the end, many cheers greeted finishers and wonderful cowboy music reminded all why Wings of Hope Ranch inspires and ministers so well to the four legged and two legged alike. We appreciate all of the volunteers and participants, we couldn’t have done it without you! Can’t wait till next year! Dawn and Matt McGrain Saturday, May 30, 2015 Salvation (Sal) A year or so ago, I was just a lonely horse standing in a pasture. I was broken and flawed, and it seemed that nobody wanted me. At twenty something, the future looked bleak for a horse such as me. But then the folks from Wings of Hope Ranch came to see me. I did all I could to help them see the good in me: my sweet nature, my soft and brightly colored fur, but when I saw them gently touching my broken ear and lifting my bad foot, I feared for the worst. Nevertheless, they saw through my imperfections, and they saw the REAL me. They gave me the name “Salvation,” and brought me home to Wings of Hope Ranch where they would rehabilitate me so that I, in turn, could minister to those children facing conflicts and challenges: children who were a lot like me. Because they saved me, I want to model God’s love for the children. It is a big job striving to be like Him. But they saved me from death just as God saved mankind, and just as God calls mankind to help others, I, Salvation, have been called to help the children who come to the ranch to see their true beauty. -7- Salvation (Sal) P.O. Box 1674 Ashland, VA 23005 804.883.8903 ext. 2 wingsofhoperanch@aol.com wingsofhoperanch.org PAID “Ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds of the air, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish of the sea inform you. Which of these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.” Job 12:7-10 Wings of Hope Ranch Calendar of Events August 22 - September 12 Online Auction New/Used Items www.wingsofhoperanch.org Sunday, September 6 - Sunday, November 1 Fall Ranch Season See information below! Saturday, September 12 Hoe Down for Hope and Silent Auction Wings of Hope Ranch 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Saturday, November 7 Trail Ride Millstone Farm 9:00 a.m. - 4:-00 p.m. Saturday, December 5 Deck the Stalls/Live Nativity Play and Tack Sale Wings of Hope Ranch 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. 2015 Fall Ranch Season Information: Children who attend Wings of Hope Ranch can expect a fun-filled hour of activities ranging from Bible-based devotional, chores, grooming, and tacking, and riding a horse (if desired). Somewhere in the hour and a half, it is certain that the horse will do her special thing...miracles occur and the child leaves renewed, refreshed, and feeling loved. Any child who wants to participate in Wings of Hope Ranch is eligible and welcome. The program is FREE of charge on a space available basis. We have served children with many different special circumstances, including those with ADD/ADHD, Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, family crises such as divorce, abuse and abandonment, among others. We do not provide any counseling services at the Ranch, however, we know the children receive hope and healing from our equine minister who provide patience and unconditional love to all of the children. The only requirement to attend the ranch is a true desire to be here. Required dress includes jeans (or long pants) and boots with 1/4 inch heel and a helmet. Thanks to our supporters, we can provide the helmet and boots if you dont have these items. Please call 804.833.8903 ext. 2 for more information.