At Lucky Orphans, every horse has a story, and every person who walks through our gates has a chance to begin a new chapter. Our work is grounded in compassion, professionalism, and the belief that meaningful connection can change lives. Through our equine-assisted programs, veterans, first responders, and community members struggling with trauma, loss, or isolation discover peace, purpose, and belonging — thanks to compassionate supporters like you.
With your support, we will continue the critical work of providing hope, healing, and community through our equine-assisted programs. Through your generosity, Lucky Orphans can sustain and expand its efforts in 2026, transforming the lives of both horses and people who need it most.
Our mission, People Helping Horses Heal People, comes to life through stories like this one. I’m honored to share Judd’s inspiring journey, in his own words.
"Although I am a Veteran with PTSD, my diagnosis stems from a traumatic upbringing of a dysfunctional family which made it incredibly difficult to connect with others. Over the years, I became more and more isolated, to a point where holidays were not celebrated, birthdays were ignored, and loneliness was the norm. I just couldn’t connect with others.
I remember the first time I heard of Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue and their offer to provide free PTSD therapy for Veterans. Eventually, I set up an appointment. When they say horse therapy, there is no confusion! My first session was with Ruby, one of the largest horses I’d ever seen. I was a little intimidated, but I soon realized just how calm and intuitive she is.
The sessions started awkwardly, as they often did for me. But through Deanna’s encouragement, I connected with Ruby, and over time even her father Pom joined our sessions. Ruby would stop whatever she was doing when I arrived to greet me. She helped me feel comfortable, open, and talkative. Today, I am engaged to a wonderful lady, reconnected with family, and part of a community. I cannot put into words how much equine therapy with Ruby has helped me—it has been utterly amazing.”
Stories like this remind us of the incredible impact that horses can have on us. Judd needed a place of calm understanding in order to reconnect with the world, and he found that at Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue. We care for a herd of 43 horses – all retired or rescued from poor conditions – on over forty acres of land. Our staff and volunteers work tirelessly to keep things running. The care our horses require is immense — but what they give back through their quiet strength and healing presence is beyond measure. We cannot do this critical work without your support.
But we have good news — thanks to a generous donor, all gifts made by December 31 will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $10,000! That means your year-end gift will go twice as far to continue caring for our herd and providing transformative experiences to more people like Judd- veterans, first responders, and community members grappling with loss, trauma, and PTSD.
Your year-end gift will provide:
Sustainable care for our herd: Nutritious feed, safe shelter, and essential veterinary treatment.
Healing programs for people in need: Equine-assisted sessions that foster connection, peace, and resilience.
Youth and community outreach: Inspiring compassion through hands-on learning and humane education.
Expanded access: Bringing life-changing equine programs to more individuals across our community.
Let’s finish the year strong, together. Thank you for being part of the Lucky Orphans herd and for believing in the power of healing through horses. Together, we can continue to transform lives and create a sanctuary where both horses and people find hope, healing, and a second chance.
With gratitude,
Deanna Hearn
Founder & Executive Director, Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue
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