This year, I’d like to share the story of Jet Set Cat, a remarkable horse who embodies resilience, grit and compassion. Despite losing an eye in an accident as a baby, Jet Set raced until he was 12, earning over $100,000 along the way. He has a unique personality — intelligent and kind, yet undeniably judgmental in the most entertaining way.
With a skeptical look from his remaining eye, Jet Set makes it clear when he thinks something is a bit odd. You can see him sizing up your worthiness — like an elegant server at a top restaurant, he makes it clear whether or not you merit his attention.
But he is incredibly sweet underneath his judgmental armor. Jet Set will melt at the sight of kids or when his LOPE staffers fuss over him. It’s this quirky charm that captivates everyone who meets him!
Jet Set is often nervous about new experiences, but he tries to hide his anxiety so endearingly, showing our kids that it’s okay to feel scared. He has taught many children compassion, encouraging them to face their own fears about learning new things. Having just one eye means that the world can seem scary — because your perspective isn’t fully accurate.
The kids can see themselves in Jet Set — and by watching him become more brave, they too can feel that way. Jet Set’s journey reminds us that even in the face of challenges, we can find strength and kindness — as well as the courage to take small steps outside our comfort zone.
At LOPE, math and science come alive alongside ex-racehorses like Jet Set. In addition to compassion, he has taught kids about biology, chemistry, physics, geometry and even the scientific method. Jet Set wouldn’t fit into an upper-level jumper barn or a ranch roping competition. But he is a perfect match for LOPE — a key piece of the learning puzzle for kids, both in school and life lessons.
sizes up the crowd with his “judgmental gaze.”
Thanks to you, we’ve engaged over 250 youth in learning experiences (at our farm and other locations) this year so far! Our youth intern crop was the biggest ever in 2024, with nearly 20 interns and aspiring veterinarians in the program (with more applications expected by next month).
Because of donors like you, we’ve accomplished great things! With your generous support, we can continue to do this work each year – helping hundreds of kids learn from our teaching herd of five former track athletes (Jet Set, Cozy, Oro, Ben and Gigi).
We have set a goal of $95,000 to raise by 12/31/24. With these funds, LOPE can continue teaching over 250 students in 2025 — plus add more internship positions. LOPE can maintain our teaching herd of five quirky, kind and gorgeous ex-racehorses (now lesson horses). We can expand our model into new territories — such as adding long-distance internships and teaching events at larger venues (like the racetracks and larger livestock youth shows).
We dream of teaching even more children and providing loving homes for more warhorses in need. Your increased support can help us enhance our educational programs, grow them to additional school districts and offer more horses like Jet Set the gift of devoted care, ongoing compassion — and a steady job as a teacher, riding partner or companion.
This year, I invite you to consider increasing your support. A gift of $100 can help cover our educational materials for two field trips, while $500 can provide care for one of our beloved warhorses for a month. Every contribution makes a difference, and with your help, we can continue to inspire young minds and offer safe havens to these deserving horses.
Together, we can create a brighter future for both children and horses. Your gift isn’t just a donation; it’s an investment in hope, education, and the chance for new beginnings. Hokey as it might sound, the LOPE horses are truly part of making the world a better place — both now and in the future.
Thank you for being a vital part of the LOPE family. I couldn’t do this without you, and I look forward to achieving even greater things together in 2025!
Warmest regards,
Lynn Reardon
Executive Director
PS: Download our annual report of facts, figures, results and fun photos for 2024. None of it would have been possible without you!
