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| OUR PURPOSE 
H.U.G.S. RANCH, founded in January of 2008, is modeled after Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch in, Bend Oregon. The ranch seeks to provide a faith-based, non-threatening, peaceful environment where children with a variety of needs and rescued horses can help heal each other. Our goal is to provide a ranch where children, ages 5-18, can be mentored and nurtured. During a prearranged,60- 90 minute, private session of one-on-one time: one child, one staff mentor, one horse; both horse and child experience unconditional love, the freedom to trust, and the ability to see dreams realized. The sessions are flexible, meeting the child's immediate needs. Leaders share their stories of personal tears and triumphs. All of this is done free of charge. It is our hope and prayer that self-esteem, self-worth, self-confidence, dignity, improved social skills, and independence will be developed through hands-on experiences producing the values of faith, trust, and family in the life of each child. H.U.G.S. RANCH reaches out to serve the families of our participants, schools, social agencies, and our surrounding communities with the offer of unconditional love and acceptance through Christ who brings hope, healing, and peace. | |
| HISTORY Prompted by Lindsey Carter, co-founders Lisa Carter and Jill Glass read the book Hope Rising by Kim Meeder, founder of Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch. Both were convicted of the need to start a ranch in Ottawa County, Michigan where hurting children and rescued equines could find a safe place to heal their hurt. Joined together with a mentor both child and horse are encouraged to trust, experience friendship, and find meaning to their lives. H.U.G.S. RANCH was incorporated in January of 2008 and is a 501c3 nonprofit corporation. Nestled between Jamestown, Michigan and Byron Center, Michigan at 284 Byron Road, the ranch sits on 12 beautiful acres which are the setting for a barn, round pen, 100' X 200' riding arena, two pastures, a large pole barn, private home and a few acres for hay. H.U.G.S. RANCH provides its mentoring services free of charge through the help of trained volunteers. We are supported through donations, in-kind gifts, grants and fees from special events. | |
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