"Do Things Afraid." Founder of Rainbow of Hope TX on Faith, Trust & Growing a Nonprofit

Summary

Ann Henderson, founder of Rainbow of Hope Texas, shares her journey of starting an organization that serves the special needs community and veterans. The conversation covers her initial dream and vision, finding the right property, the challenges she faced, and the expansion of services. Ann emphasizes the importance of teaching life skills and the healing power of horses in their programs. The organization has received media coverage and community support, allowing them to reach more people in need. Overall, Ann's story highlights the impact of doing things afraid and following a higher purpose. Ann Henderson discusses the expansion of coverage for Rainbow of Hope and the potential for Fox26 to feature the organization. She shares her excitement about showcasing the veteran side of the program and overcoming her fear of horses. Ann explains the different programs for special needs individuals and veterans, as well as the organization's organized schedule. She describes therapy horses and their training to adapt to different individuals. Ann also discusses the transition from boarding horses to owning them and the challenges of rising costs. She shares her husband's Parkinson's diagnosis and the role of faith in her journey. Ann talks about the future plans for Rainbow of Hope and the importance of passionate board members. She mentions upcoming events and partnerships and encourages others to follow their calling.

Takeaways

Dreams and visions can lead to meaningful and impactful work.
Challenges and obstacles are a part of the journey, but perseverance is key.
Teaching life skills and providing opportunities for inclusion are crucial for the special needs community.
The healing power of horses can be transformative for individuals with disabilities and veterans. Rainbow of Hope may be featured on Fox26, highlighting the veteran side of the program.
Ann Henderson overcame her fear of horses and is excited to showcase the therapy horses at Rainbow of Hope.
The organization has different programs for special needs individuals and veterans, with a well-organized schedule.
Therapy horses are trained to adapt to different individuals and provide support and comfort.
Rainbow of Hope has transitioned from boarding horses to owning them, and rising costs pose a challenge.
Ann's husband has been diagnosed with Parkinson's, but staying active and having a purpose keeps him going.
The organization is growing and plans to expand its facilities with the help of grants and donations.
Passionate board members are crucial for the success of a nonprofit organization.
Rainbow of Hope has upcoming events and partnerships to raise awareness and support.
Ann encourages others to start and pursue their dreams, emphasizing the importance of taking the first step and having faith.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
00:41 The Dream and Vision
04:00 Starting Rainbow of Hope Texas
06:51 Challenges and Personal Journey
09:41 Expanding Services and Partnerships
14:12 Serving the Special Needs Community
17:15 Involving Horses in the Program
20:18 Media Coverage and Community Support
22:06 Expanding to Help Veterans
25:51 Expanding Coverage for Rainbow of Hope
26:25 Overcoming Fear of Horses
27:18 Balancing Programs for Different Groups
28:11 Special Needs and Veterans Programs
28:44 Understanding Therapy Horses
29:38 Training and Sensitivity of Therapy Horses
30:00 Transition from Boarding to Ownership
30:19 Challenges of Rising Costs
31:08 Growing Number of Horses
31:32 Managing Parkinson's Diagnosis
32:59 Expansion and Growth of Rainbow of Hope
34:41 Advice for Starting a Nonprofit
35:32 The Role of Faith in Ann's Journey
37:28 Future Plans for Rainbow of Hope
38:32 Importance of Passionate Board Members
41:13 Upcoming Events and Partnerships
42:20 Inspiring Others to Follow Their Calling

Rainbow of Hope Texas: 

Rainbowofhopetexas.com