If you are looking for a way to give back to your community or you just enjoy working with horses you might want to consider volunteering at Reins of Hope.

It is a non-profit organization that was started in 1995 to help children and even adults with

Photo by Jennifer Little

Madison Little is helped by Adrian Rohrbough and another volunteer at the horse center.

 physical and mental disorders. With clients coming in everyday, the need for volunteers is great — and not just for working with horses.

“We need people who can help take care of any kind of lawn work that needs to be done. We also have a homemade meal for our volunteers every night and we need people to help cook,” said Jane Harder, the director of Reins of Hope.

“We are always looking  for people who are willing to help.”

The program is more than just riding horses, for the students who are enrolled. The purpose for the program is to help with increasing circulation, balance, strength and control. Other plusses are the emotional aspect of the relationship that happens between the horse and the rider, helping the student build self-esteem and interpersonal relationships.

“The motions of the horse helps stimulate the muscles and it helps with concentration,” Harder said.

“I think that it’s an awesome program,” said Stephanie Pierce-Little, mother of student Madison Little. “She’s like a totally different child up there; she’s happy and free. It’s a good way to learn; they have fun as well that makes it a good program.”

If you are interested in helping or would like more information about the program, you can contact Jane Harder at (620) 727-7700.  You can also call or stop by the Roy Coffey Arena where Reins of Hope is located. The address is 2116 N. Obee Rd. and the phone number is (620) 665-0906. 

On May 4 they will be holding the Harry Hendricks Memorial Trail Ride in honor of long-time volunteer Harry Hendricks who died April 10. The trial ride will begin at 1 p.m. at the Harder farm, located 2 1/2 miles north of K-96 on Victory Road. Signs will be posted.