Women and Giving Impact Tour at Joy Ranch

Supporters of the record-setting 2023 Women & Giving campaign visited Joy Ranch in late August to see first-hand the impact of their generosity.

During the visit, supporters had the opportunity to hear from Joy Nelson, who has dedicated over 35 years to developing the 126-acre ranch to ensure it is accessible to all.

Joy spoke about the therapeutic benefits of spending time outdoors and interacting with horses. She emphasized that the mission of Joy Ranch is to provide individuals facing significant challenges with the opportunity to build meaningful connections with horses. The ranch welcomes campers from all around the United States, including foster children and individuals with life-altering physical conditions or cognitive disorders.

Pastor Jerod Jordan and Miranda Breitag from Joy Ranch shared several stories of campers who came to the ranch seeking respite from the challenges of their disabilities. One story, in particular, was about a camper battling cancer. Though riding a horse at Joy Ranch was her greatest wish, she lacked the strength to do so at the time. A year later, after dedicating herself to battling her cancer and regaining her strength, she returned to the ranch and achieved her goal of riding a horse.

April Geffre, a recipient of a $3,000 Women & Giving scholarship in 2023, graciously shared her journey as a working mom and non-traditional college student with attendees. April has received two Women & Giving Scholarships which have allowed her to spend more time focusing on her family and her studies. April is currently studying Financial Services at Lake Area Technical College where she also serves as the Assistant Bookstore Manager.