February 2025 Update

As is typical, February flew by! Session 1 students finished up a great session of learning and growing, and Session 2 kicked off on February 24. It is always exciting to watch the progress that students make with consistent effort from session to session.
Students and families helped spread the love this past Valentine’s Day by writing notes of appreciation and bringing in goodies for the volunteers. It was a special week of celebrating each other.
The horses, staff, volunteers, and students are continually giving thanks for the blessing of the heated, accessible horse barn. Michigan weather can throw a lot at us and it’s such a beautiful thing to have a dry, warm place for programming to continue.

Photo credit to Liz Lesperance



Denim & Diamonds at the Derby
Funds raised during all of the Denim & Diamonds at the Derby fun are essential to supporting the mission at Renew. There are many ways to partner in the mission, whether you attend the event or not. Either way, you can get in on the fun and donate to support the many life-changing programs that help people in our community live a more abundant life.
Attend in person –> Those wishing to don their western gear or derby attire and take part in all of the festivities can secure a spot starting March 3rd. Single tickets or tables can be purchased and include a delicious meal and a front row seat to all of the fun – including watching the debut of Renew’s missional video from 2024, the ability to fellowship with other champions of the mission, “compete” against each other for the yummiest dessert in the dessert auction, and much more.
Partner virtually –> If you are unable to attend, you can still support the mission through donating to the Jockey Race, making a donation, and buying Bid 2 Win tickets to try and win some amazing auction packages (no need to be present to win).
The jockeys will enter the starting gates towards the end of March and the Bid 2 Win tickets will go on sale in early April. Donations can be made at any time. All the event information and ways to partner in the mission can be found on the Denim & Diamonds at the Derby event website below.
Please email Cassie at communications@renewtrc.org with any questions.
Volunteer Appreciation Event
It’s no secret that Renew would not be able to live out the mission if it weren’t for an exceptionally dedicated, compassionate, and selfless team of hundreds of volunteers! Yes, hundreds! The time you give, the hugs, the encouragement, the listening ear – all of the ways that you pour into the participants who come to the farm is humbling and inspiring. We want you to know every day how much you’re valued and appreciated. One of the ways that we recently expressed that gratitude was through a volunteer appreciation event fiesta. There were games, food, and lots of laughs. Thank you to everyone who chooses to volunteer!

Photo credit to Mia Travers




Sponsorship Opportunities for 2025
Renew would love to add more event sponsors this year. Do you own or work for a company that would like to partner in the mission through an event sponsorship? Renew’s events are a great way to reach people all across West Michigan!


Upcoming Events
Hug A Horse
Thursday, April 10
5:00-6:00P
Everyone is invited to this free event. Come to the barn and take a break from the busy-ness of life alongside some of the horses. Please wear close-toed shoes.
Denim & Diamonds at the Derby
Thursday, April 24
5:30-9:00P
Tickets for this event will go on sale March 3rd. Buy a single ticket, or invite a group (treat your co-workers, gather your friends, or invite your neighbors) because this evening is something you won’t want to miss! If you can’t attend but still want to partner in the mission, there are many ways to show your support through our online event website. Try to win an amazing auction package in Bid 2 Win (vacations, dining, and much more!), donate to help your favorite “jockey” win the race, or support students through a scholarship donation. More details coming soon!


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