A Long-Held Vision
Since the beginning of recorded history, horses and humans have shared a special bond. The horse was one of the creatures God Himself chose when He challenged Job with the question, “Do you give the horse its strength or clothe its neck with a flowing mane?” The connection between man and horse can transcend physical, mental, and spiritual barriers. The relationship that develops is able to break down barriers that tend to keep so many of us isolated and alone.
After moving to a 32-acre property in Sheffield Village in 1998, Scott and Karen Doane prayed for ways they could bless others with the space. Karen had always dreamed of having a horse ranch, but knew her purpose went beyond caring for animals.
Karen & Scott Doane, HOPR Founders
In 2013, the Doane family began to research ministries that seek to cultivate the human/horse relationship, and their purpose began to materialize after they traveled to Oregon to attend a seminar on horse ministry start-ups with two of their daughters. After much prayer and seeking advice from family, friends, and a steering committee, HideOut Pines Ranch was born.
The summer of 2019 began with recruiting approximately 25 volunteer staff for natural horsemanship training with a professional Parelli horse trainer. Safety and discipleship training followed. In July, the ranch welcomed its first visitors, who were able to experience one-on-one sessions with a leader and a horse. The summer also brought the first day camp, attend by children from the Youth for Christ Cleveland City Life Center.
HideOut Pines received their 501(c)3 non-profit status in 2019 as well.