Our Beginning
Our Founders
Lisa Carter
Lisa Carter, co-founder of H.U.G.S., began the ministry in 2006 when she and her children were going through a particularly tough time in their lives. Living on the future ranch property with her three children and horses, the idea was inspired by the book "Hope Rising" about Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch. Motivated by a desire to help struggling children and families, Lisa prayed for guidance.
Two years later, with the support of a counselor and her daughter's encouragement, Lisa, alongside partner Jill Glass, started H.U.G.S. Ranch while juggling multiple jobs and parenting. The journey began with two horses, two volunteers, and a vision to aid the children of west Michigan. Achieving 501C3 status in 2008, the ranch now houses 15 rescued or donated horses.
Today H.U.G.S. Ranch provides Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) activities in a faith-based setting, offering hope and healing to children and families. The programs have expanded to meet community needs, with six distinct offerings. Lisa's children, now adults, have imbibed the values of hard work and perseverance from the ranch.
Witnessing transformative effects, H.U.G.S. Ranch focuses on mental health struggles through EAL activities, fostering resilience and building self-confidence. Participants attend for free or by donation, ensuring accessibility regardless of financial stress. Financial support from individuals and corporations sustains the mission, creating a safe haven for families to experience hope, understanding, guidance, and support. Join us in extending this reality to more families.
Jill Glass
1951-2022
Jill Glass, co-founder of H.U.G.S. Ranch, played a pivotal role in shaping the foundation of this haven for healing and hope. With a rich background as a former teacher and veterinary technician, Jill's journey at the ranch was marked by a diverse array of roles, showcasing her unwavering commitment to its mission.
Throughout her years of service, Jill mentored unwed mothers and offered refuge to young adults facing housing and life challenges, reflecting her deep empathy and dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others.
She and her husband, Jack, were married for 50 years and have five children and nine grandchildren. Certified in Equine-assisted Learning, Jill's passion for horses was a driving force behind her involvement with the ranch, but living out her faith through sharing Christ's love and helping others was her life's goal.
Her legacy of kindness, compassion, and Christ-like service continues to resonate across the grounds of H.U.G.S. Ranch, leaving an enduring impact on the lives of participants and volunteers alike.
Our Founders
Lisa Carter
Lisa Carter, co-founder of H.U.G.S., began the ministry in 2006 when she and her children were going through a particularly tough time in their lives. Living on the future ranch property with her three children and horses, the idea was inspired by the book "Hope Rising" about Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch. Motivated by a desire to help struggling children and families, Lisa prayed for guidance.
Two years later, with the support of a counselor and her daughter's encouragement, Lisa, alongside partner Jill Glass, started H.U.G.S. Ranch while juggling multiple jobs and parenting. The journey began with two horses, two volunteers, and a vision to aid the children of west Michigan. Achieving 501C3 status in 2008, the ranch now houses 15 rescued or donated horses.
Today H.U.G.S. Ranch provides Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) activities in a faith-based setting, offering hope and healing to children and families. The programs have expanded to meet community needs, with six distinct offerings. Lisa's children, now adults, have imbibed the values of hard work and perseverance from the ranch.
Witnessing transformative effects, H.U.G.S. Ranch focuses on mental health struggles through EAL activities, fostering resilience and building self-confidence. Participants attend for free or by donation, ensuring accessibility regardless of financial stress. Financial support from individuals and corporations sustains the mission, creating a safe haven for families to experience hope, understanding, guidance, and support. Join us in extending this reality to more families.
Jill Glass
1951-2022
Jill Glass, co-founder of H.U.G.S. Ranch, played a pivotal role in shaping the foundation of this haven for healing and hope. With a rich background as a former teacher and veterinary technician, Jill's journey at the ranch was marked by a diverse array of roles, showcasing her unwavering commitment to its mission.
Throughout her years of service, Jill mentored unwed mothers and offered refuge to young adults facing housing and life challenges, reflecting her deep empathy and dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others.
She and her husband, Jack, were married for 50 years and have five children and nine grandchildren. Certified in Equine-assisted Learning, Jill's passion for horses was a driving force behind her involvement with the ranch, but living out her faith through sharing Christ's love and helping others was her life's goal.
Her legacy of kindness, compassion, and Christ-like service continues to resonate across the grounds of H.U.G.S. Ranch, leaving an enduring impact on the lives of participants and volunteers alike.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
— Proverbs 3:5