Hope Reins Mane Event 2011

For the last year, I have had the privilege of donating my time and talent to a great organization here in town called Hope Reins of Raleigh. Their mission is to share the love of God with children in need through rescued and donated horses. I grew up riding horses, and have always loved being around them. The first time I had heard about a program like this was in a book I read several years ago called "Hope Rising" by Kim Meeder. Kim started Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch in Oregon. The book shared beautiful stories of how broken children and broken horses had found hope and healing through bonds formed at Crystal Peaks. It was such a touching book that I dreamed about having my own ranch one day that would do the very same thing! However, that has not been in God's plan for me, but luckily I found out about Hope Reins of Raleigh. Hope Reins was started by Kim Tschirret (yes, both of their names are Kim) after she too read "Hope Rising" and caught the same vision as Kim Meeder. A mere two years later, Hope Reins of Raleigh has grown from a dream into a reality. Just a couple of weeks ago Hope Reins hosted a fundraising event called the "Mane Event" at the Angus Barn's Pavilion. There were over 300 attendees, and it was a packed house. The featured speaker was Kim Meeder herself, whose book and ranch are the inspiration and model for Hope Reins. The event also had a concert by Meredith Andrews, whose song, "You're Not Alone", was the theme of the evening. Check out Meredith's other music here. Ok, ok, enough talk. Here are just a few pictures from this great event!

Hey, Brides! Looking for a really awesome venue for your reception? Check out the Angus Barn Pavilion. It has a really cool rustic vibe!

(It's always fun seeing my pictures in print!)






Cards at each table shared a picture and a story about Hope Reins to let people know about the amazing things that are happening every day at the farm.


Hands down, the Angus Barn makes the best chocolate pie ever. Just sayin'.

Christy Burkey, Marketing Coordinator.

Anna Foulkrod, Training and Conditioning Coordinator.


Founder and President of Hope Reins of Raleigh, Kim Tschirret.

Founder of Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch and author of "Hope Rising", Kim Meeder.



Board of Directors member, Allin Foulkrod.

Meredith Andrews




Meredith's husband/keyboardist/backup singer Jacob





Fact: I love cowboy hats. Troy Meeder (left) is Kim's husband. He leads worship time on their ranch in Oregon and has just published his first book, "Average Joe: God's Extraordinary Calling to Ordinary Men".


The Tschirrets and the Meeders

The lovely women who make Hope Reins run!


If you are interested in learning more, or becoming involved with Hope Reins of Raleigh, please visit their website: hopereinsraleigh.org.