Our Team

PRESIDENT

Lisa Carter co-founder H.U.G.S. Ranch and serves both as the ranch’s executive director and the president of the board. She has 3 children. Lisa has a degree in Equine Management. She has managed multiple horse farms in North Carolina and has worked as a veterinary technician for 28 years. Lisa is certified in Equine-assisted Learning and has participated in clinics focused on helping children struggling with mental and social challenges. Lisa is passionately pursuing what she feels God has called her to do and feels strongly that the Ranch needs to be used for God’s glory.

PROGRAM ASSISTANT

Grace began volunteering at H.U.G.S. at the age of twelve and exemplifies dedication and passion. Equipped with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Grace Christian University, she is dedicated to empowering others through her work. Recently married in 2023, Grace balances her adventurous spirit with her unwavering commitment to serving the community. She played soccer in college and enjoys fishing, camping, wood burning, cooking with her husband, calligraphy, travelling, and all games! Grounded in her faith in God, her vibrant spirit illuminates every interaction.

OFFICE MANAGER

Lauren, who officially joined the H.U.G.S. Ranch team in December 2023, has been deeply involved with the Ranch for over a decade as a mom. Lauren and her husband of 18 years revel in the joys and challenges of raising their energetic triplet teenagers, born in 2010. The family finds respite in nature, frequently camping in the picturesque Silver Lake Sand Dunes area, and savoring moments together at home with their cherished dogs. In her leisure time, Lauren indulges in her love for thrifting vintage items and restoring her 1960s camper. Lauren has had the blessing and joy of witnessing how God has used the programs at the Ranch to make a significant impact not only on her children but on their entire family.

BARN ASSISTANT

Melissa, who began volunteering at H.U.G.S. Ranch in 2018 and has since joined the staff, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role. She has a background in theater sound production and was an accomplished ballerina. She has two horses of her own, Tango and a foal name Thunder who she is training. She has a deep love for horses and believes in the power of equine-assisted therapy to transform lives. Melissa's faith is at the core of her work, and she is committed to serving others for God's glory.

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR

Dan Enck began his experience at H.U.G.S. in the spring of 2018 volunteering as a mentor. He has worked with teenagers as a youth group leader for more than 25 years. He also mentors teenage boys who do not have an active father in their lives. He enjoys helping others. On Saturday mornings he cooks for a Muskegon community breakfast for those seeking a warm meal. Dan enjoys spending time with his son, daughter, their spouses, and his three grandsons. He enjoys backpacking, camping, kayaking, canoeing, and riding his bike.

PROPERTY MANAGER

John lives in Byron Center with his wife Connie. They have 3 children, 3 grandchildren, and 2 dogs. John retired from Gordon Food Service in 2017. He is active in his church and the Knights of Columbus organization. John likes to stay active by working outdoors, traveling, fishing, and playing golf. He enjoys working with animals and people helping their development and growth. Giving back to the greater Grand Rapids community through volunteering is very important to him.

SECRETARY

Vicki Hooker started her volunteering as a mentor in 2018. She has also been a feeder. Vicki has always enjoyed working with kids and has been on staff and volunteered at her church in children’s ministry for 30+ years. She is married to her high school sweetheart and has two kids. She loves gardening, cooking, being on the lake, and spending time with friends and family.