Kelly Brown

I’m raising money for Open My World because I’ve had a front-row seat to what my sister Jocelyn has helped build, and it’s impossible not to believe in it.

Five years ago, she walked in for what she thought was an instructor interview. Instead, because of her background with horses, and the veterinary world, she was asked to become Executive Director.

I like to say she got “Ted Lasso’d” (all puns intended).

At the time, Open My World had only six horses, two clients per week and one assisted riding program. It was on the verge of closing. But Jocelyn knew she was being called there for a reason. And while she had no experience running a non-profit, no experience running a full-fledged ranch on her own and no idea what the future held, she thought, “I got this!”

And she did! With the help of the amazing volunteers, Today, OMW has become a becon of light in our community. the serve nearly 40 riders a week, have eight full-size horses, two mini horses, and programs that support physical disabilities, cognitive and learning differences, mental health. Recently, they’ve added PATH’s Horse Powered Reading, and H.A.P.Y, their mobile outreach.

Not everyone who needs comfort or connection can get to the ranch, so this year, I’m becoming an ambassador to help expand H.A.P.Y., the Hug A Pony Mobile Outreach Program, which brings OMW’s minis, Thunder and Lightning to memory care communities, hospice facilities, autism centers, and residential programs.

And you can help! If you can donate, great! If you can’t, please share my page, or become an ambassador yourself! Every dollar helps make H.A.P.Y. a full-time program, so more people can experience dignity, healing, and connection, one pony hug at a time.