Roanoke Ranch for Kids
Our Residents
What makes our program successful? It is our dedicated volunteers and our horses. Horses have an amazing sense of a person’s inner being. They don’t stereotype. They don’t care about your past. They make connections with people in ways that often cannot be duplicated by humans. It’s our horses that help break down the walls or barriers of these kids, while building up their confidence. This, in turn, allows us to mentor these children and make a difference in their lives.
Bailey
The Palomino Mare Who Turns Scars into Sources of Strength
Bailey is a Palomino mare that has been at
the ranch for almost 15 years. When Bailey
was a young filly at another farm, she was
often picked on by the other horses, so
much so, that when a gate was pushed off
its hinges, she was pushed into it and
severely injured her shoulder. She endured
3,000 stitches that left a huge, unsightly
scar. Her story, with her visible scar, as well
as her inner scars from being bullied, allow
many kids to instantly relate to her. Bailey
helps show kids how to learn to overcome
their own scarred pasts. Bailey is a ranch
superstar when it comes to connecting
with kids, and helping them develop
confidence and inner strength.
Dewey
A Gentle Giant Making a Difference
Dewey is a large, sorrel gelding with a wide blaze and four bright, white socks. He has been at the ranch helping to impact the lives of kids for almost 20 years! He is often referred to as one of our “Gentle Giants,” for he is indeed a very large horse. With his big stature comes an even bigger heart. Dewey has an incredible ability to connect with many, many kids, especially those that have disabilities or special needs. He has a special protective nature about him that attracts kids like a magnet!
Cheyenne
A Bond Builder and Confidence Giver
Cheyenne, a beautiful Paint, has a gentle and nurturing nature that made her a favorite among many, as she has a special gift for connecting with those deeply in need. Over the past two years, she has formed a life-changing bond
with a shy young man from Pine Rest, bringing him out of his shell and filling him with joy. Cheyenne’s warmth and
understanding also touched a young lady from Arbor Circle, who found confidence and comfort in their time together.
Little Man
The Shy Paint Pony Who Finds Faith in Kids
Little Man, is a cute, small paint pony that came to us when one of our volunteers found him online. He had been abused and was very skittish and shy. You could say that he had completely lost his faith in humans. Since he arrived at the Ranch we’ve shown him lots of love and have been working on building his trust and confidence. It has been amazing to see how the kids instantly connect to Little Man. His bright blue eyes light up as he responds to their love and affection.
Rojo
The Sorrel Gelding that Transitioned from Sheriff's Deputy to Uplifting Kids
Rojo has been a valued member of our ranch since 2020. This large, statuesque Sorrel
Gelding dedicated 13 years to serving the Kent County Sheriff's Office Mounted Unit with
distinction. We are grateful for their generous support in transitioning Rojo to his new
role. In retirement, Rojo now brings his wisdom and grace to helping the kids at The
Ranch, enriching their lives with his gentle presence.
Teddy
A Big Heart in a Big Body
Teddy’s name couldn’t be more fitting—he’s like
a big teddy bear. Though his size can be a bit
intimidating at first, it only takes a few seconds for any fear or anxiety to melt away when the kids realize he’s a true gentle giant. Teddy is one of our larger horses. He is a Percheron and Pink Paint mix with chocolate chip eyes and stands 15.3 hands. He came to us in 2021 when his owners felt Roanoke Ranch for Kids would be the perfect place for this lovable TEDDY bear. Teddy loves treats, affection, and all the attention he can get! It’s no surprise that everyone who comes to the ranch quickly connects with him and falls in love with his warm, friendly nature.
Rudy
The Heart of the Ranch for Over Two Decades
Rudy, a strapping sorrel gelding, is one of the oldest and most cherished horses at Roanoke Ranch, having been a part of our family almost from the beginning- for over 21 years. Throughout his time here, Rudy has made a profound impact on the lives of so many kids in our program. Just last year, a girl from the Pine
Rest program chose Rudy as her companion, and the bond they formed was immediate and heartfelt. Though she could only visit for a day this year due to aging out of the program, her very first priority was to spend time with Rudy and ride him one last time. Rudy also helped a young man from the same program break
through his tough exterior, offering him comfort and deep connection. Watching gentle Rudy patiently break down barriers and help these kids heal has been nothing short of incredible!
Ruby
Where Hearts Meet
Ruby, affectionately nicknamed “Grandma”, due to her age, has a gentle and sweet spirit that touches everyone she meets. This year, one girl, who was initially reluctant to attend The Ranch, found an unexpected connection with
Ruby. Watching them bond was a heart-melting experience—every week, She would seek out Ruby, spending time grooming and fussing over her, talking to her with her arms around her neck, simply enjoying her calming presence. Their special bond is a testament to Ruby's incredible nature.
Oreo & Sage
New Life, New Hope and New Cheer
Oreo, our new Paint mare, has been a beacon of comfort this year, helping to mend hearts after Sylvie’s passing. A young lady from the Pine Rest program, who was grieving Sylvie, found solace and a new trusting companion in Oreo.
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The year’s highlight was Oreo’s unexpected gift of a filly named Sage, born just two weeks before the season’s close. Oreo’s caring nature and Sage’s delightful presence have brought much-needed cheer to the kids. Your contribution to Oreo and Sage at our live auction helps ensure that their special mother-daughter bond continues to uplift and inspire everyone.
Miss Bell
The Bay Mare Whose Tenderness Heals
Miss Bell, our gentle Bay mare, joined The Ranch this year and seamlessly stepped into the role of caring for many kids with warmth and grace. One young lady, initially hesitant about being here, quickly formed a deep bond with Bell. The time she spent grooming,
caring for, and journaling about Bell proved to be an incredible blessing, melting away her hurts and deep wounds. The connection they formed is something we believe will last a lifetime.
Jack
The Donkey who helps overcome fears
This year, Jack, our Jesus Donkey, proved to be instrumental for more than just treats and pets.
One young man in a group, whose fears prevented him from riding a horse, connected immediately with Jack. While others in his group enjoyed their horse rides, this young man found solace in leading Jack around the pastures, following along with the horses and his friends. It’s truly amazing to witness how God utilizes each animal on The Ranch to break
down barriers and touch the hearts of these incredible kids we are blessed to impact.
Shadrach
The Sheep who thinks he’s a Horse!
Meet Shadrach, our lovable sheep with a name straight from the Bible! Like his biblical
namesake who faced the fire with courage, Shadrack the sheep boldly believes he’s a
horse, traveling, eating, and even napping with his equine pals. You’ll often find him standing
under them for shade! A favorite among the children who visit Roanoke Ranch, Shadrack’s
quirky antics make him unforgettable.
Kevin
How Kevin and the kids heal each other
When Kevin arrived in 2023, he was known to be wary of men, but more receptive to women. Over time, it was incredible to witness how young girls with profound personal struggles gravitated toward him. Their connection was instantaneous, as Kevin offered them a safe space to share their stories and secrets. His ability to build trust and provide comfort is a testament to his gentle nature.
Zeus
A Connection That Lasts Beyond the Ranch
Zeus, our stunning paint gelding, made a significant difference in the life of a young woman with severe emotional wounds during her short time at The Ranch. She found peace in hugging Zeus and sharing her struggles with him. Although her time with us was cut short due to her need for more intensive treatment, we pray the lessons she learned and bond they shared is a beacon of hope for her ongoing healing.
Joseph
A Bundle of Joy and a Friendly Ear
Joe, our playful goat, is always ready to bring a smile with his love for treats and friendly demeanor. Along with Clyde, he’s quick to greet everyone who arrives at the ranch. Each year, it’s incredible to see how some kids will seek Joe out to share their troubles, finding solace in his presence.
Remington
The Rock Solid Influence of REMINGTON: Leadership and Support
Remington, our striking roan gelding, has rapidly become a key figure at The Ranch. His dependable nature and ability to either lead or follow confidently have made him a favorite among the kids and a reliable partner for our mentors. Remington’s role extends beyond just being a favorite; he’s also an excellent example to the other horses. We’re delighted to have him in our herd and look forward to the continued positive impact he brings.
Olaf
The Pony Who Builds Confidence and Celebrates Every Child
Olaf, our remarkable new pony, has quickly become a cornerstone of support for the younger kids at the ranch. His gentle demeanor and ability to carry any child with ease help build confidence in those who are smaller in stature, making them feel as special as he is. Stepping up in a big way, Olaf has helped many kids overcome their fears and embrace the joy of God’s creation.
Clyde
The Silly Goat Who Makes Every Treat
Moment Special
Clyde, the other half of this lively goat pair, is always eager to lick treats from anyone’s hands. His adorable habit of turning his head sideways while enjoying treats adds a cute and endearing touch. His engaging personality transforms each treat giving moment into a memorable experience, making everyone eager to return.
Bentley
The Pony Who Meets the Needs of
Every Young Rider
Bentley, our larger pony who joined the ranch in 2024, has perfectly filled the need for a versatile and caring companion. Whether working with younger, smaller kids or older, bigger ones, Bentley approaches each with great pride and attention. Many children quickly bonded with him, whether in the paddock, arena, or on a long trail ride. His big heart has made a significant impact, and Bentley has also been instrumental in teaching valuable lessons through demonstrations about horse behavior.