Horse Directories

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.

Equine Encore Foundation is a non-profit (501) (c) (3) corporation whose mission is to provide a retirement home for racehorses, both Thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses, who have served the industry well but whose racing careers have come to an end and who deserve to hang up their racing plates and bask in the Arizona sun. As with all rescue operations, the major challenge is funding. We receive support from the industry with our major supporters being CARMA, Thoroughbred Charities of America, Second Call of Turf Paradise in Phoenix, AZ, The Arizona Racing Commission, the Arizona Quarter Racing Association and the Pima County Horsemen’s Association. Support also comes from grateful racehorse owners and fans of the sport. We are working to establish a “social security” system for all racehorses through the racetracks but this is a difficult task. We are hopeful that horse lovers in general and racehorse lovers specifically will help us with their tax-deductible donations. Donations can be made online or mailed directly to us.