My Nonprofit Reviews

I literally stumbled upon this gem in 1977 at the green age of 7 years old as I explored the woods with my cousin. The caregivers were warm and welcoming on our visits to Pony Bird.
I entered 2nd grade that year and I was truly blessed to have Mrs. Sue Hockensmith as my teacher. Little did either of us know how connected we were and would continue to be. I visited her son, Phillip, often and continued to do so for years. I would help at meal time, hold the residents and sit on the floor and play with them. These early years at Pony Bird left a profound impression on me. The people of Pony Bird-the residents, the caregivers and the founders will always have a special place in my heart and forever be a part of who I am. I am a mom, teacher and coach. Over the years I have taken countless students, athletes and my own children to visit. We decided to give these trips a name... at De Soto School District in Missouri we call it The Power of Pony Bird - because once these students make one trip they are just drawn to go back over and over again. Some of my students have even been so influenced they have decided to pursue a career in helping people with special needs. So thankful for the Hockensmith family for having this vision and keeping the Pony Bird aligned with that vision.