Hope Lives Youth Ranch

Hope Lives Youth Ranch offers Mentoring Sessions, Donkey Calm, and Hope's Homestead. Mentoring Sessions are one-on-one with one student, one leader, and one horse, and include a 20-minute chore around the ranch before working with the horses. Donkey Calm includes one-on-one or family donkey snuggle sessions with Miniature Donkeys Jack and Mabel, and field trips are also offered. Hope's Homestead is a group class that includes livestock care, sewing, gardening, and campfire cooking.

Programs

• Mentoring Sessions — 8-18; children under 8 may be admitted on a case-by-case basis · Held weekly for 7-week rounds; sessions last an hour and a half · $140 per session · Trauma-informed mentoring with one student, one leader, and one horse; helps build self-esteem, leadership skills, resilience, and confidence.
• Donkey Calm — Visits available May-October; 30-minute or 60-minute sessions · $20–$40 · One-on-one or family donkey snuggle sessions; field trips are also offered.
• Hope's Homestead — 10-18 · Group class for children who enjoy the outdoors, group projects, nature, and animals; includes livestock care, sewing, gardening, campfire cooking, and more.

At a glance

• Ages: 8–18 years old
• Price range: $20–$140
• General schedule: Mentoring sessions are held weekly for 7-week rounds.

About the provider

Hope Lives was born after a year of research, soul searching, and paperwork following Emily's 2016 leg injury, and Cindy teamed up with Emily in Fall 2015. The leadership team includes Emily Reichman, Founder/Director/Board member; Cindy Darnell, Founder; Rachel Erb, Administrative Assistant; and Avery Ballard, Barn Manager. The program states a mission to use equine-assisted mentoring to help youth recover from trauma, build resilience, and find purpose in a Christ-centered environment of love and encouragement. It lists CHA Certified Session Leaders and a Seal of Transparency Platinum.

Parents may remain on the property during mentoring sessions, but are asked not to hover. No family will be turned away for financial hardship. Donkey visits are rescheduled if rained out for no extra fee. A parent or guardian must be present at all times within the donkey enclosure for family encounters. Mentoring sessions are for youth with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), anxiety and depression, emotional regulation issues, or trauma. Hope's Homestead is for children 10 to 18 years old.

What families say

“Great rescue ranch, went there for a volunteer work day and had a great time!! I can't wait to help again!” — Rachel M.

“Wonderful!! Really really cares about the kids!!” — Christina T.

“A truly special and wonderful place.” — Megan D.

Last updated August 22, 2026.