Happy Spring,
April has truly been a whirlwind at the ranch — it’s hard to believe the month has already flown by! We are filled with gratitude for the many hands and hearts who made this month such a success. In addition to our regularly scheduled programs, Affinity Ranch proudly hosted the Denver University Institute for Human-Animal Connection for two back-to-back weekends, and Operation Equine also held two impactful workshops on-site.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to Lobato Construction, the Parker Rotary Club, and the many others (you know who you are!) who played an essential role in planning for and installing our new mental health cabins. In a truly impressive effort, they spent an entire day at the ranch, skillfully navigating cranes over trees and power lines to place the cabins perfectly onto their pre-set foundations. Thanks to the Parker Rotary Club, we are also looking forward to beautiful landscaping and accessible entryways for these spaces. These cabins will offer a serene, private, nature-based setting for our clients to engage with their clinicians and engage with the healing presence of our equine partners nearby.
The Board of Directors has revised our mission and vision statements to more accurately reflect the heart of our work at the ranch. As we continue expanding our reach and raising public awareness, these updated statements will better communicate the meaningful impact we have on the lives of those we serve.
Mission: To enhance the lives of individuals with differing abilities by fostering skill development, self-confidence, and a strong sense of belonging through equine and animal-assisted therapies, recreational activities, vocational training, and mental health support.
Vision: A future where individuals of differing abilities are empowered to lead meaningful, independent lives and volunteers are inspired and enriched by the profound impact they have in fostering growth and change through a compassionate community of strong, lasting connections built on shared experiences.
Save the Date!
We are excited to announce that the Affinity Ranch “Ponies with a Purpose” Gala will be held on September 25th at the Legacy Campus Ballroom in Parker. We are currently gathering silent auction items and seeking sponsors for this important event. If you would like to contribute an item, assist in gathering donations, or if your company is interested in becoming a sponsor, I would love to connect with you! Sponsors will enjoy recognition leading up to and throughout the Gala. This promises to be a night you won’t want to miss! Please feel free to reach out to me directly at shannon@affinityranch.org.
Lastly, we want to recognize and honor Alicia Engebretson, our beloved President of the Board of Directors, who has made the decision to step down to focus on her health and care for her aging parents. Alicia has been a vital part of our community since the founding of Promise Ranch, and her dedication has helped shape the Affinity Ranch we know today. While she is stepping back from her board responsibilities, we are grateful that she and her family will continue to be a part of our programs. Please join us in thanking Alicia for her years of extraordinary service and wishing her the very best in her next chapter.
With warmth and gratitude,
Shannon Forslund
Affinity Ranch
Executive Director
