NWA Equestrian Community Unites to Support Anna Roan Ministries: "Horses For Hope"

Rebecca Thompson

Oct 7

2 min read

Photo courtesy of "The Social Bit"

A very gentle and patient horse stood quietly among very excited children as they put

colorful handprints or paintings on his light-gray coat. Other calm horses took riders

from small children to older adults around the arena, led by experienced volunteers from

Stormy Acres and Thunder Mountain Ranch.

Miniature horses and ponies from Happy Hooves Hideaway and the Mini Horse Connection of NWA, and goats from Narrow Trail Farm, loved all the petting and attention they received from people of all ages.

Grown-up participants took home treasures they won in the silent auction – more than 45

treasures donated by Saving Grace, Flint Creek Youth Ranch, Shiloh Saddlery,

Northwest Equine Services, and many other local businesses and individuals. This fun

event -- Horses for Hope -- took place on Saturday, September 19, 2026 at Park

Spring Equestrian Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to raise funds for Anna Roan

Ministries. Volunteers from near and far gathered for a meaningful mission.

Rachel Brown started Anna Roan Ministries in 2023, in memory of her precious baby

girl, Anna Roan Brown, who lived for less than two hours after she was born. Through

scholarships and partnerships with Thunder Mountain Ranch, Stormy Acres, 180

Ranch, Echo Valley Arabians, Veza Experience, Flying Q Stables, Rico Enterprises,

The Unbridled Journey, and Sumler Farms – a list of partners that is always increasing -

- Anna Roan Ministries provide interaction with horses to people who could not

otherwise afford it.

Activities include riding lessons, horse grooming, and other hands- on contact with horses that builds confidence, helps heal physical and emotional wounds, encourages personal growth, and conveys the unconditional love and grace of Jesus Christ. The Horses for Hope event was made possible by over 20 volunteers and raised over $5,000.00.

“It made my heart glad that (people) from babies to elderly were able to enjoy the day,” said Rachel. “Because of you, Anna Roan Ministries can continue helping children and adults experience the joy, healing, and hope that horses

can bring.”