HopeWell Ranch is a nonprofit organization in Mount Pleasant, Michigan that hosts a variety of programs for many individuals in search of healing. The ranch has horses, goats, rabbits, chickens, and ducks that are all used in various therapeutic programs. Their programs serve many people, from injured veterans to children and families with disabilities.
The ranch is sustained almost entirely by volunteers, and Linda Walterreit is one of them. Walterreit is a psychologist who volunteers her time to work with various clients on the ranch. Although she owns her own private psychology practice, her love for animals is what drew her to Hopewell. Caring for her own animals as well, she enjoys the combination of working with animals and clients together.
Her partner is Jodi Stuber, the ranch director and owner. The two work together, using a program called EGALA (Equine Growth And Learning Association). Stuber is the equine specialist, while Walterreit is the mental health specialist. EGALA is used for clients to learn and accomplish their personal goals, often relating to their disability or challenge. These sessions involve clients interacting with horses one on one, with activities such as brushing or petting the horses.
Throughout their time working together, Walterreit and Stuber have become incredibly close friends both on and off the job. As they’ve learned to work together as partners, they’ve also learned to communicate better as friends. Their work at Hopewell can be exhausting, and they’ve come to depend on each other as a helping hand and encouragement.
Right now, Stuber is the only paid staff member the ranch can afford. However, the team is working hard to change that in the next few years. One of those additions to staff would likely be Walterreit, since she spends most of her time at the ranch. Both women are incredibly dedicated to Hopewell’s cause.
Hopewell Ranch Story from Hannah Vogel on Vimeo.