Dear Friends of Hope Ranch,
As 2015 draws to a close, we find ourselves looking back over the year. God still reveals who He is – Faithful, Kind, Compassionate, Slow to Anger, Abounding in Love, Provider, Healer, Redeemer, Restorer, the Great I Am. We have seen God. Throughout the year, there were moments the Hope Ranch Team had to stop striving and remove ourselves from the distractions of the world in order to receive all our Good Father had to give. He has given us so much. Day by precious day, we are personally experiencing His freedom while watching those we serve catch even the slightest hope that His freedom is true for them. Little by little defenses come down, hope rises, love abounds, lies are exposed, truth is revealed, and forward movement happens. Through the power of Jesus Christ, survivors become whole in mind, body and soul. Through the power of Jesus Christ, we don’t simply survive, we thrive.
We want to take a moment to thank you for your continued prayer. This has been a year of wonderful blessings for our team, as well as the women who have passed through our doors. From remodeling inside the house, to the indoor equine arena, the addition of four new board members, and continued support from our church partners, we’re sending 2015 off with a smile, and welcoming 2016 with open arms. Read on to learn more about the latest progress at Hope Ranch.
I can do all things through Christ, which strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
House News
The bedroom remodel is nearly finished. All four bedrooms have fresh paint and new furniture. In January, the flooring will be installed and they’ll be complete. A bedroom should be a place for peaceful rest, particularly to those who are in turmoil. We’re happy to provide this small semblance of normalcy.
Throughout the property, falling leaves, sticks, and debris were stacking up fast, but generous volunteers have helped us clean up and clear out the mess. We are always appreciative of this kind of assistance.
Even Bigger House News
We received a pledge to pay off the Hope Ranch mortgage. We hope to receive the funds in early 2016. As soon as we are freed from this large monthly debt, we can allocate more funds toward our programs. We ask for your thoughts and prayers as we move toward achieving this milestone.
Equine Program
In 2015, an indoor arena was built on the property. This will help our equine program significantly. Now we can conduct sessions 10 months out of the year without worrying about bad weather. In 2014, we served 44 clients and in 2015 we served 73. To learn more about our gentle giants – GoBoy, Donatien, and Loki (added this year), visit our Equine Learning page.
Mentoring Program
Our mentoring program continues to be the cornerstone of care at Hope Ranch for Women. Bonds of trust are rebuilt from relationships formed between mentor and mentee in a faith-based atmosphere. It’s heartwarming to hear comments from mentees regarding their mentors including, “She doesn’t agree with my lifestyle but I know she loves me,” “I can always count on her listening to me,” and “You’re more like a mom to me than my own mom.” Mentors are kind and generous with their time, but it’s often their straightforward approach that’s appreciated the most. One mentee remarked to her mentor,
“I can count on you to be honest with me even when no one else is.”
In 2014, we paired 6 mentors with 6 mentees. In 2015, we significantly increased that number by matching 21 mentors with 19 mentees.
Grant from Church of God
Many thanks and praise to the Church of God for their $20,000 grant. It is a blessing beyond words. Hope Ranch for Women is currently partnering with 15 churches across Kansas. The financial support and work projects these organizations provide are vital to us. In 2016, our goal is to achieve 1,000 donors who can provide a $1,000 annual donation. If you or someone you know would like to learn more about sponsorship, please contact Linda McMillin.
New Website
Just a few short months ago, we launched a new website. The previous site was difficult to navigate and update. The new site is built on a more user-friendly platform and can be seen clearly on a number of different devices. Other new features include an events page that will allow people to view and sign up for sessions directly on the website. We’ve also added separate profile pages for each of the horses in our Equine Learning program.
Thank you for your continued prayer and support. If you are reading this message it means you are vitally important to the forward movement of HR4W. As we turn the corner to 2016, we look forward to helping our lost and broken sisters find their way again. From the team at Hope Ranch for Women, we want you to know we feel your prayers and remain grateful for your time and assistance.
Warmly,
Cathy Turner and the Board of Directors