The
Vision of Iron Horse Christian Youth Ranch
If we can reach the youth of today, it is our future for tomorrow. This is
the vision of Iron Horse Christian Youth Ranch (IHCYR).
IHCYR started in 2003 with low cost youth education classes and riding
instruction. A passion to share quality care for horses, a round pen,
three horses and one arena is how any dreams started to become a reality.
The similarity of the relationship we can have with our Creator and the
relationship we share with horses is a parallel in communication and
yielding.
The desire to help individuals grow in these relationships is bedrock for
IHCYR. This vision developed into the non-profit organization in 2005.
Through the years, it has grown with the hard work and generosity of many
individuals and became a non-profit organization in 2005.
IHCYR has many more horses for instruction and horses that come in for
rehabilitation in need of care and training. IHCRYR has not only expanded
the facilities, but also the number of people that they have been able to
reach. The ranch was started so that everyone would have an opportunity to
interact with horses on an educational and Biblical level.
The Purpose and objectives are to provide Equine Education and riding
instruction to youth, adults and individuals with special needs by
combining the therapeutic qualities of horses with biblical principles to
develop character, confidence, physical and mental health.
We also offer rescue, care and rehabilitation for horses that have been
neglected, abused or are in need of proper care and training. We are able
to help the horses and youth by setting an example as to the benefits of
proper nutrition, care , and the balance of positive reinforcement and
boundaries. The relationships that are developed through AAT and Equine
Therapy displays the connection of trust, boundaries, patience and
knowledge that develops
social and interactive skills with everyone here at IHCYR.
The standards for instruction, safety, equipment, facilities humane
treatment and health care of horsed, first aid, risk management and
Insurance are implemented but are not limited to the guidelines set forth
in the Horsemanship Program through Scouting, the Certified horsemanship
Association, Vaulting Program and Biblical Principles.
Activities include Volunteer programs, free and affordable education
classes, riding instruction, for the self-development of youth to ensure
safety, responsible care, clear communication and quality horsemanship to
prevent harm to both horse and rider teaching leadership skills, mentoring
opportunities with adult supervision. We desire to build character
and confidence to all individuals which will help our community and our
country.
The Woman Who Started It All
Susan Kamlan
The dream of a little girl, that now through what God has done is able to
help others have their dream a reality.
I have been fascinated and loved horses since my earliest memories. My
family was horseless growing up which makes it virtually too expensive and
untouchable for a little girl. Growing up in Kansas, I was involved in
Ballet and dance, in 1965 our family moved to Japan. In 1970 we came to
Colorado. I found a small area with many ponies, I would go
under the fence to get closer and "touch their warm soft skin. I was
thrilled at the smell of horses and to love them. Many years have gone by
since that time, but I will never forget how thrilled I was and the
lessons learned at the ponies. My parents purchased "Rustie" for me and
the adventure began that continues today.
I have been on this journey with horses for over 39 years and still love
horses as much not as I did when I was a little girl. I am constantly
learning and I am passionate about training and caring for horses. I
attended Lamar Community College- Horse Training and Management, Show Tea,
English Equitation, Specializing in Trail Classes. I have taught Riding
Instruction to children and adults, and individuals with special needs. I
have judged horse shows at a
local level designed trail classes, trained horses at Pine Run Ranch in
Black Forest Colorado and Rushlow Arabian Farm in Romulus Michigan. I have
worked with foals, trained Stallions and have ridden in many disciplines.
I am a CHA certified Riding Instructor in English - Jumping and Western. I
am a Member of NARHA, the General Leader for the American Prairie 4-H club
in Falcon, Colorado, leader of the horse project. I was a member of the
Pikes Peak Rangerettes and currently I am the Assistant Drill Master. I
have the blessing of working with all the individuals that come to IHCYR a
non-profit organization that was the dream to allow opportunity for all
individuals to learn to ride and share in the special bond with horses. We
are chartered through the Boy Scouts of America, Venture Crew and Learning
for Life. It is so wonderful to see how horses learn and change in their
behavior as they respond to our leading in the safe way we respond under
the direction of the Holy Spirit in our lives. I
hope everyone who comes to IHCYR will be able to safely care for a horse
of their own someday and everyone here will begin to understand the
language God has placed within these beautiful animals, learn to
communicate effectively and see the potential within themselves and the
horses as they and we respond to loving leadership and honestly. I am in
awe of our Creator and thankful for the joy He has given to me working
with horses, the smiles on the kids faces and fulfilling so many dreams. I
now give back what He has given to me.
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"May the beauty of
the horse in
movement be the
way your life flows
with the direction of
our Creator"
Board of Directors
Susan Kamlan,
President
Michele Giordano,
Vice President
Jan Notsch,
Secretary
Leroy Walter,
Treasurer
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