Where Special Needs Are Met

A Note From Our Founder, Lorrie

The vision for Reins of Hope began years ago as a calling on my heart — a feeling that horses had a special role to play in the lives of children.

It wasn't something I could easily put into words, but it became a dream I couldn't shake. I felt it was a calling from God, showing me that our lives could be used to make a difference in the lives of children.

Growing up, I found solace in the barn. Whenever life was tough, lonely, or simply needed a boost, I would run to the barn, hop on a horse, and find peace. That deep connection to horses stayed with me.

The idea gained even more meaning when my granddaughter, Maddie, fell ill with cancer.

Maddie loves horses! When she came home from the hospital after her first intensive chemo treatment, I met her with Zak and we had our first equine therapy session right there on the street in front of her house. Her Dad lifted her up onto the horse and we just had her lay on him and take some deep breaths. Its benefits confirmed my belief in the healing power of horses. Although we planned to bring the horse into the hospital for all the kids to see, we never got the chance as it was during the pandemic and they didn’t let anyone in, let alone a horse!

With 33 years of experience as a registered nurse, I understand the healing power in personal touch, then to witness this special connection with a horse, just fanned the flame of passion in my to share this experience with others.

The biggest challenge was finding the right property to make this dream a reality. 

There are several hoops to jump through to start a ministry like this, and each step has been covered in prayer and wise counsel. We all were so excited when our “non profit” was approved, but that meant reality set in and we needed a bigger ranch to do this! This is no small task in California where property prices are so high; but God brought my family together and made a way for us to purchase a 35 acre ranch with a small barn and pasture. It is beautifully graced with a few of my favorite things; green grass, majestic weeping willow and eucalyptus trees. He really is mindful of the details!

The foundation for Reins of Hope has been laid. We are in the process of settling in, and making plans to build a barn and a covered arena to serve our community year-round. This ranch is not just a place; it’s a fulfillment of a calling, and we are grateful to have the opportunity to share it with others.

If you want to support our mission of bringing hope and healing to kids with disabilities through equine-assisted activities, please consider donating to Reins of Hope. If you are a family who could benefit from our services, click the button below to get in touch with us!

With Gratitude and Love,

Founder & Director
Reins of Hope

Our People

  • A woman and a small girl petting a horse

    Lorrie Heard

    FOUNDER, DIRECTOR

    I am humbled to say that I am the founder and director of Reins of Hope. I was raised by parents who let this little girl grow up on a horse, and I grew to love the heart and soul of my equine companions. I learned firsthand that there is a healing aspect of just being around horses.

    I have been a registered nurse for 33 years, and although my career was tremendously rewarding, the Lord has birthed a desire in me to share this beautiful relationship with horses. So I retired and am devoting myself to this calling. As I seek Him everyday, I pray that He will strengthen the weak, and minister in many ways through our horses and ranch.

  • A woman wearing a hat and sunglasses sitting on a horse

    Janice Wiggins

    SECRETARY, BOARD OF DIRECTORS

    I’ve been an ER nurse for 24 yrs. I tried to retire, but I didn't like it! I have a passion for caring for people in need. I’m a wife, mom, and grandma to 5 grandkids. I am very blessed to have grown up on a farm, but I left as soon as I could to experience the big, wide world. I love kids, dogs, horses and anything else my kids and grandkids bring home. I believe it’s important to be “part of the solution, and not part of the problem.”

  • A man and woman standing in front of a tree holding hands

    Melanie Jackson

    TREASURER

    As a mom of a blended family with six kids ranging from preschool to college, my heart is dedicated to giving them the best of God's creation—especially the chance to grow up around horses. My daughters love to ride, and one of them even competes in Jr. Rodeo with Zak, one of Reins of Hope's own. I’m excited to see what God has in store for this ministry and am honored to serve on the board of directors.

  • A man standing between two horses

    Clay Heard

    BOARD MEMBER

    I got my first pony, "Star," when I was 5 years old, and she taught me a lot. Ever since then, horses have been a big part of my life, each one as unique as people. I enjoy roping and spending time around horses. I married Lorrie in 2014, and together, we're excited to see what God has in store for our future with Reins of Hope. We pray that this ministry will be a blessing to our community.

  • A mother and father with their five children standing outside in front of a tree

    Steve Owens

    BOARD MEMBER

    My wife and our five children currently live near the ranch. Our kids have grown up riding horses and are currently involved in the Northern California Jr. Rodeo Association. To witness first-hand the positive impact a horse can have on a child has been incredible. Our oldest daughter was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma at 11 years old. When her treatments became discouraging and overwhelming, the calming presence of her horse eased her anxiety and fears. Now that she is in remission, I have been fortunate enough to watch her confidence and physical strength improve in tandem with her skills as a rider. The confidence boost in her younger siblings have been evident as they have all grown in their equestrian skills. It is truly extraordinary what bonding with a horse can do.

  • A woman, a man, and three young children

    Austin Hills

    BOARD MEMBER

    Hi, I’m Austin Hills. I was born and raised in the Central Valley, where my wife and I are now raising our three daughters. I’m a proud small business owner of an industrial construction company, and I take great pride in my work.

    I enjoy the great outdoors, whether it’s camping, fishing, or simply enjoying nature. My faith, my family, and my country mean everything to me. I’m grateful every day for the blessings and opportunities that God has given me.

  • A woman sitting on a horse and smiling at the camera

    Brittany Standridge

    HORSE TRAINER

    I’m the owner of Standridge Ranch Horse Training in Mountain Ranch, CA, with 18 years of experience in horse training. Over the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of training horses for Lorrie and Clay Heard. I’m excited to bring my expertise to Reins of Hope, and I can’t wait to see the joy on the kids’ faces as they connect with the horses.

  • A man in a cowboy hat sitting on a white horse

    Otto Coelho

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Claudette Coelho

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Vicky Johnson

    BOARD MEMBER

SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
Proverbs 3:5–6

Our “Therapists”

Lil’ Bit

Lil’ Bit, also affectionately known as Pony, is the cutest “therapist” on the ranch. Since she is a rescue, we don’t know anything about her past. She’s young, full of energy, and always eager to be brushed—especially if treats are involved! Just don’t try to touch her ears! Lil’ Bit is also showing great promise in pony cart training and is happily learning to be led around while children ride her.

Zak

Zak is a 19-year-old strawberry roan gelding. He came to our ranch 12 years ago as a cattle-working horse, but he’s since become the favorite of the ranch. Over the years, he’s patiently taught all my grandkids to ride, and they’ve taken him to Jr. Rodeo events. He’s a gentle soul who understands those with special needs, since he’s had to overcome a neurological disease himself. He likes to think of himself as a tough guy, but he’s been known to secretly give hugs!

Snowflake

Snowflake is our 16-year-old gray spotted mare who loves being brushed and spoiled with carrots. As the mother of two other "therapists" you might meet at our ranch, she’s a natural caretaker. With her nurturing nature, she makes sure everyone feels looked after, and she's always ready to lend a listening ear.

Jewel

Jewel is Snowflake’s eight-year-old daughter. She likes to follow you around like a little puppy, and she will always be the first in line for food! When she was about a year old, she had a scare that caused her to run into a fence. This resulted in a severe chest injury that required numerous stitches and left her with lasting scars. Despite her anxious and fearful nature, we’re incredibly proud of how Jewel has grown into a more confident and trusting horse.

Critter

At 6 years old, Critter is still discovering the world with curiosity and playfulness. This sweet boy is on his way to becoming a great therapist, with a bright future ahead.

Reins of Hope FAQ

  • Any child with any disability or medical challenge is eligible (one year old and up). No matter the level of support needs, appropriate equine-assisted activities will be provided to suit each child's needs and goals.

  • Any child with any disability or diagnosis is welcome at Reins of Hope. This includes but is not limited to:

    • ADD/ADHD

    • Autism

    • Cerebral Palsy

    • Language and sensory disorders

    • Medical disabilities

    • Down Syndrome

    • Brain/Spinal Cord Injuries

    • Intellectual Disability

    • Chromosomal Anomaly

    • Seizure Disorder

    • Angelman Syndrome

    • Stroke

    • Spinal Muscular Atrophy

    • Multiple Sclerosis

    • Prader Willi Syndrome

    • PTSD

  • Start by filling out our intake form HERE. We'll get in touch to schedule your first visit.

  • Children should dress appropriately for the current weather conditions. Please wear long pants and boots or sneakers (no open-toed shoes). Bring jackets in the winter months and sunscreen in the summer months. Riding helmets are provided at the facility.

  • Thanks to the generosity of our volunteers and sponsors, our services are provided free of charge. To make a tax-deductible donation, visit THIS PAGE.

  • 10725 Pellerin Rd.
    Waterford, CA 95386

  • Thank you for thinking of supporting our mission. To make a donation, head over to THIS PAGE. Donations are tax-deductible!

Contact Us

If you want to schedule a visit for your child, fill out our intake form HERE.

For all other questions, fill out this contact form. We’ll get back to you soon!