Kinleigh's story

I was depressed, angry, and so shy that I didn’t like meeting new people. I didn’t know that a place like this, filled with love, encouragement, and the Lord’s presence, could completely change the way I see myself and the world.

One of the things I love most about Refuge Ranch is the horses, especially my favorite, Jackson. Being with him has taught me patience, trust, and how to open up my heart. Horses have a way of understanding you without words, and Jackson has been that special connection for me. When I’m with him, I feel peace, joy, and a reminder that I’m never alone.

I’ve also been so blessed by the mentors God has placed in my life here. My first mentor, Virginia, was such a light for me before she left for college. Now, Chavet has become such an important part of my journey, guiding me, encouraging me, and pointing me back to God’s love. She has helped me grow so much, and I’m grateful for the way she believes in me and walks alongside me.

Because of Refuge Ranch, I am not the same person I was when I started. I’m happier, my love for the Lord has grown leaps and bounds, and I’m not afraid to meet new people anymore. This place has been a home for me, a safe space where I could heal, grow, and discover joy again. Refuge Ranch is more than just a ranch…..it’s a family, and I will always love it with all my heart.

At the Ranch, I’ve grown up in more ways than one. I started out unsure of myself and now I’ve come to a point where I get to pour into others. Becoming a mentor this year feels like the next step in my journey, and it’s exciting because I know how much my mentors mean to me. I’ve learned to trust, to open up, and to find joy here, and now I get to share that same hope with someone else.

What makes my perspective unique is that I’ve lived the whole process, from being the shy, hurting kid who barely wanted to talk, to being someone who can lead with kindness and faith.. Mentoring, for me, isn’t just about guiding others with horses; it’s about showing them they belong, just like I learned I did."

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Written by Kinleigh, Program participant

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