I love working with HOPE Acres! They are an incredible group of selfless people truly making a difference in the SC equine community. I especially loved being a part of the Partner Program last year and getting to bond with a special rescue while learning about horse behavior and training. This rescue does an excellent job of getting the volunteers involved with the horses too, not just with the chores.
I have been associated with H.O.P.E. Acres for three and a half years, first as a volunteer, and now as a board member. I am overwhelmed with the dedication that our volunteers and board members demonstrate toward the horses in our care. Seven days a week, three hundred and sixty-five days a year, our volunteers are in place making sure that the horses receive food, proper veterinary care, grooming, training, and most importantly, love. The transformations that some of the horses have made is truly remarkable--from untouchable, frantic, traumatized, and fearful of humans, to being able to be handled by small children and ridden on trails; from emaciated, diseased, and lame, to fit, healthy, and sound. Pictures on the website do not show the full transformation--it must be seen in person. There are no paid positions--everyone who works here is a volunteer. This rescue was formed from a vision of love--and so it shall continue...
After my husband passed away, I was looking for something to occupy my time but be worthwhile too. I was so very lucky to find this organization. Not only are the owners and volunteers dedicated to the exhausting work it takes to keep this farm running, but the effort that is expended to get these beautiful horses back on their feet is outstanding.
I became a volunteer about three years ago but had never seen the hurt and suffering these poor horses had gone through. My very first horse that was emaciated was Chance. His hip bones were almost breaking through his skin he was so malnourished. It just broke my heart. As I watch and worked with the volunteers and saw their love for these beautiful animals, I observed the change in Chance. He not only became thicker in girth, but his spirit and love returned. I credit the people working each and everyday with his gentle recovery. Each and every horse brought to H.O.P.E. is treated with love, kindness and a compassion beyond anything I could have dreamed.
Much of the money used to feed, vaccinate and care for these equines is either by donations or by fund raisers we have every year. Please, if you are looking to donate or even if you are not, consider H.O.P.E. Acres as your pledge to assist us in continuing the work needed in this area. These beautiful animals have so much love to give and so do our volunteers. We need your love and support also. Thank you for considering our horse rescue.
H.O.P.E. Acres Rescue is an amazing organization that has the health, safety and comfort of these beautiful rescue horses as it's #1 priority. Tranquil grounds, off the beaten path, is where I enjoy spending my spare time. It is extremely rewarding to watch these horses grow and blossom, and find a forever family to love and care for them for the rest of their days. The most gratifying feeling to know you have a tiny hand in this magnificent circle of life.
