Volunteering

Yesterday I attended an all-day volunteer training program at the Praying Hands Ranch with a couple from my church. It was an absolutely amazing experience! I've been horse-crazy all my life (encouraged especially by my dad, who grew up on a Wisconsin animal park populated with 40 horses and all different kinds of North American animals), so the fact that horses were involved was definitely a big plus for me. The PHR staff and volunteers work alongside people with special needs to strengthen their physical and/or mental health using horses, small animals, and horticulture. They are beginning a program for youth at risk and also plan to help disabled veterans in the near future.

The DVD testimonials of parents whose children were aided was a real blessing. Many lives are being changed through this ministry. PHR is a Christian organization -- a Ten Commandments plaque hangs on the wall near the front door, and the friendly atmosphere and spirit of the place radiates true genuineness. I know that I will enjoy working with the horses, but the real purpose of Praying Hands Ranch is to be a mark in the community that can transform the seemingly hopeless futures of many.