It all began with a horse, a child and a dream. It was a sweltering summer day in July 2010 when 10-year-old Marcus climbed atop Gabe, the former party pony adopted by Hope Reins to serve as the first official ‘equine counselor.’ The red-haired foster boy wore a broad smile and sat upright as his counselor led Gabe around the pasture – unaware that he was the first of many more hurting kids that would enter the gates of this special place.
Yes, Kim Tschirret had a dream. The Raleigh mom of two and former marketing executive with Thomas the Tank Engine had recently read a remarkable book that not only touched her heart deeply but evoked a sense of personal purpose – a passionate mission she later could only attribute to God’s artful plan.
“Hope Rising” was the book – and its author, Kim Meeder, chronicled heart wrenching stories of abused horses she and her husband, Troy, rescued and the hurting kids who began to find hope and healing themselves while helping care for the extraordinary horses. The Oregon couple witnessed the natural connection between emotionally and physically wounded kids and horses – and embarked on an amazing journey by founding Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch, which today is home to dozens of horses and has served thousands of kids and families.
