This past year, our LOPE horses stepped up as remarkable teachers, offering hands-on learning experiences in horsemanship, STEM subjects, and life skills. Through field trips, internships, and workshops, they’ve inspired curiosity, compassion, and confidence in students and educators alike. From elementary schoolers learning the science of horse care to high school interns exploring veterinary careers, our horses have proven to be exceptional partners in education.
We’ve also celebrated incredible stories, like former interns now applying to veterinary school and educators finding new ways to connect with their students through experiential learning at LOPE. These successes highlight the deep and lasting impact our programs have on both youth and adults.
Building a Sustainable Future: Our Vision for 2026
As we celebrate these achievements, we’re also looking ahead to the future. To make these results sustainable, we’re focused on building strong partnerships with donors, learning institutions, and veterinary organizations. This next phase is all about creating a foundation for long-term growth, so we can expand our reach to 450 youth annually by the end of 2026 (two years from now).
To support this vision, we’re also expanding our board and advisory groups. By bringing in experts and advocates who share our passion for youth education and equine stewardship, we’re positioning LOPE for strategic growth. These new perspectives and skills will help us navigate this exciting next chapter and ensure our programs continue to thrive.
What’s Next for LOPE
For now, we’re pausing new horse intakes to focus on program growth. Our current herd is the perfect group of teachers, and their unique skills allow us to offer high-quality, impactful experiences for our students. While we remain committed to helping ex-racehorses, this intentional pause ensures we can balance our education mission with responsible horse care.
As we gear up for the next phase, we’re excited to share updates on our progress, introduce you to new board/advisory members, and highlight more success stories from our students and horses. Together, we’ll continue to make a difference—one ex-racehorse, one student, and one step at a time.
Join Us on the Journey
This is just the beginning, and we’re thrilled to have you with us. Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to get involved, whether it’s through partnerships, volunteer work, or supporting our programs. Let’s build a future where LOPE’s impact grows even stronger, touching more lives and creating brighter futures for both youth and ex-racehorses.
Thank you for being an essential part of the LOPE family. Together, we’re making a lasting difference. Here’s to the LOPE ex-racehorses, the students they inspire, and the bright future ahead! 🌟
What You Can Do Today:
- Share the News: Help us spread the word about LOPE’s milestones and vision by sharing this post with your friends and family.
- Stay Connected: Follow us on Facebook for updates, stories, and ways to get involved in 2025.