Jill Nelson | Founder
Over a decade ago, through God’s leading, I began volunteering annually at a camp for children in foster care. Spending intentional time with these kids, I witnessed firsthand how deeply the experience impacted them. They were seen, valued, and reminded that they were loved regardless of their past, their circumstances, or the emotions they carried with them.
That experience stirred something in my heart. I felt a calling to walk alongside these children in a way that went beyond a once-a-year experience.
My vision for a nonprofit that included horses grew out of my own healing journey. After experiencing trauma from abuse in my previous marriage, my horse played a significant role in my healing. Through God’s unconditional love, I found restoration and was able to create a safe, nurturing environment where my own children could grow, heal, and fully be who God created them to be.
In October 2018, that vision became a reality. Reclaiming Hope Ranch was founded to serve children with a history of foster care or adoption by providing a safe place where they are seen, valued, and unconditionally love through meaningful relationships, horses, and creative activities.