FAQ's for Potential Clients
Who is eligible to receive Equine Assisted Services at Reigning Hope Ranch? Any child or adult struggling with physical, emotional, or psychological challenges, as well as all current and former military and first responders (including police, fire, EMS, and trauma teams), are welcome to apply.
What are your hours of operation? Monday – Saturday: By Appointment Only Sunday: Closed.
What services do you offer for veterans, military, and first responders? RHR offers equine-assisted learning, psychotherapy, and special weekly “Coffee & Connect” sessions focused on support, camaraderie, and healing for those with post-service needs such as PTSD. We also offer a monthly Thursday night Campfire & Cookout, which provides the same vibe as Coffee & Connect but after business hours. Please visit our Facebook page for dates and times.
How do I enroll or join a session? Interested clients must complete an online waitlist or inquiry form. After assessment, RHR matches them with appropriate programs or sessions.
Do I need a referral from a therapist or doctor? No referral is strictly required, but therapists can contact RHR directly with referrals and client information. A dedicated referrals page is suggested for collaboration.
Do therapy sessions require a client to ride a horse during their session? No. Therapy and horsemanship sessions can be either mounted (on horseback) or unmounted (on the ground). Activities are tailored to each client’s needs, focusing on interaction with horses, mindfulness, and life skills—not just riding.
What is “Coffee & Connect”? Coffee & Connect is a weekly gathering for military and first responders to socialize, enjoy campfire coffee, meet peers, and learn about services in a welcoming, low-pressure setting. There is no formal therapy offered at these sessions. However, formal equine therapy is available separately. There is no charge to attend, thanks to donor support.
Do you offer riding lessons? Yes, beginner to intermediate riding lessons are available, structured to teach horse care, safety, and independent riding skills.
How much do therapy sessions or lessons cost? Are there scholarships? Fees vary based on the service. Donor support helps subsidize care and scholarships; inquire for details during application.
Do you accept insurance for therapy or programs? Most equine programs are not covered by standard insurance, but some clients may use FSAs or HSAs for eligible expenses. Please check with your provider. Documentation for out-of-pocket expenses is available upon request.
Are there payment plans or sliding scale options? Yes, limited payment plans and sliding scale fees are available based on financial need for certain services. Contact us to discuss your situation.
Can I buy a scholarship or gift card for someone? Yes, you can purchase scholarships or gift cards to support a loved one’s participation in therapy sessions or lessons. Contact us for details on how to give this gift.
How long is your waiting list? Due to high demand, there is a waitlist for new participants. The length of time varies; submit a waitlist form for the most up-to-date estimate.
Do you have an indoor riding arena? Not yet, but a new indoor riding arena is in the works! Follow us on Facebook or sign up for our newsletter for updates.
What if there is inclement weather during my riding lesson? Lessons may be rescheduled, moved indoors for groundwork and horsemanship, or postponed when weather is severe. We will contact you as soon as possible in the event of a schedule change.
Are there any age restrictions for therapy or riding lessons? We serve children and adults of varying ages. Minimum or maximum age requirements for certain programs may apply for safety; please contact us for more information.
FAQ's for Donors
How do donations make a difference at RHR? Donations fund client scholarships, horse care (each horse costs $4,000–$5,000 per year), facility maintenance, and program expansion for underserved populations.
How much from donations goes directly to horse care, therapy, ranch programs, or maintenance? Donations support client scholarships, horse care, facility maintenance, and program growth. The exact distribution may vary; please inquire for details about current donor impact.
Can I sponsor a specific therapy horse or program? Yes. Sponsorship opportunities exist—donors are recognized on our website and social media, and sponsors receive a thank-you gift from their chosen horse.
Are donations tax-deductible? Yes, Reigning Hope Ranch is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All monetary gifts are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law.
What is a DAF account and how can I donate from my Fidelity or other investment account? A Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) is a charitable investment account you can use to support nonprofits. You can recommend a grant to Reigning Hope Ranch from your DAF at Fidelity, Schwab, Vanguard, or other sponsors by searching for us and submitting your grant recommendation online.
Can I buy a scholarship or gift card to use for a therapy session for a loved one? Yes, you can purchase scholarships or gift cards for a loved one to participate in therapy sessions or lessons. Please contact us to arrange.
FAQ's for Volunteers
Can anyone volunteer at Reigning Hope Ranch? Most individuals age 16 and older are welcome to volunteer, provided they complete an application and background check.
What would I be doing as a volunteer? Volunteers help with barn chores, property upkeep, horse care, and supporting equine lessons. Some positions may require additional horse experience or training, but many do not.
Are there age restrictions for volunteers? Yes, volunteers must be at least 16 years old for all roles.