March 2026 Update
Celebrating our Core Values: EMPOWERMENT
This month we have the privilege of hearing from a dedicated Renew volunteer on what empowerment looks like at Renew from her perspective.
I’ve been a sidewalker with a few students consistently for the past four years. I am humbled to walk by their side, both literally and figuratively. Under the guidance and care of the instructors, I’ve watched the students I sidewalk with flourish.
The students that I have walked with have gained so much in their physical strength, balance and confidence over time that their overall riding skills have greatly improved. Now whether holding a two point or weaving through cones, or going over the bridge, these are a few of the skills they are able to do consistently and well. During each lesson, the instructors are always giving encouragement and support on how well the student is progressing. The instructors always make the lessons fun and enjoyable and use each lesson as building blocks to help the student improve their communication skills and decision-making, which gives them much more confidence in their riding.
Another component in the growing success of the students I’ve walked with is the emotional support given to the riders by the instructors. Like everyone, we bring our emotions of the day to the barn. The amazing instructors were supportive in listening to the worries and stresses felt by each rider. Through love, listening and encouragement, the rider felt acceptance of where he/she was on that day emotionally. The instructors have empowered these riders to feel confident in the riding skills they have gained and it shows also in their ability to better handle stress.
I can’t give enough accolades to the amazing instructors in how they empower our riders to be successful and feel accepted, always. I have learned so much from the instructors as a sidewalker to better support and encourage riders to help them feel empowered.
Prestigious Honor Awarded to Dr. Macauley
Dr. Beth Macauley was recently chosen as the 2026 Barbara Glasgow Therapist of the Year from the American Hippotherapy Association. Dr. Macauley has long partnered with Renew to offer our community outstanding speech therapy services and this award is well deserved!
Below is a short response from Dr. Macauley on this amazing achievement.
I am truly overwhelmed, humbled, and honestly…a little mind blown. When I think about the incredible therapists in AHA – people I admire, learn from, and look up to – this recognition feels almost unbelievable.
This honor makes me pause and reflect on the journey…the long days, the risks, the faith steps, the passion, and the purpose – it makes my life’s work feel seen, valid, valuable, and deeply appreciated.
Thank you to the American Hippotherapy Association for this incredible honor!
Thank you to my home at Renew Therapeutic Riding Center in Holland, MI, for providing a place where this work can truly come to life.
Thank you to the families, my heart, who have trusted me with your children and loved ones. It is the greatest privilege of my life to walk alongside you.
And to my colleagues, students, and collaborators across the country and around the world…thank you for inspiring me, challenging me, and joining me in this mission.
Most of all, thank you to God for guiding my path every step of the way.
Make an Impact – Join the Fun
As the only fundraiser in 2026 to support the life changing mission at Renew, Denim & Diamonds at the Derby is your chance to make a difference…have a lot of fun!
You don’t have to attend the event on April 23 to join in the festivities. This year’s Denim & Diamonds at the Derby jockey race is really heating up and every donation you make to the mission helps your favorite rider/horse duo towards the finish line. The jockey with the most “votes” the night of the event will win the roses!
There are also some amazing Bid to Win packages for you to try and win. The more tickets you buy, the greater your chance of winning something wonderful. Bid to Win tickets will go on sale April 13th. You do not need to be in attendance at the event to win – just make sure to enter a good email address during check out so we can contact you if you win.
We have a lofty fundraising goal, and we are excited to see the ways that God will provide. Thank you for pouring into the mission through Denim & Diamonds at the Derby! Let the fun begin!
Get Connected and Stay Up to Date
In an effort to bring you all of the information you need in one convenient place, we have created the HORSE HUB. The HORSE HUB is the place to visit for all of the upcoming event information, programming information, registration links, and more. This living document will be updated regularly, so make sure to check in often.
If you would like to register for an upcoming program? Check the HORSE HUB. Want to know when registration opens for the next session of therapeutic riding lessons? Check the HORSE HUB. Want to know the dates for Hug A Horse events? Check the HORSE HUB.
We hope this is a very useful tool for the Renew family.
Upcoming Events
Denim & Diamonds at the Derby
Thursday, April 23, 5:30P
Baker Lofts
This event is always a memorable evening! This year, it is the only fundraising event to support the mission and we’ve set a lofty goal to ensure that our community has access to the programs they need. We are expectant and excited to see how God will provide through the Renew family. We hope you are able to join in the fun, whether in person or virtually.
Horse Brain Science Clinic with Dr. Stephen Peters
April 24-26, 2026
Renew Therapeutic Riding Center
This immersive clinic will combine live demonstrations, engaging presentations, and a rare hands-on brain dissection to reveal how trust, fear, motivation, and learning are wired in the equine brain. Leave guesswork behind and gain science-based tools to build trust, communicate clearly, and create a calm, connected partnership with your horse.
New Online Store
Renew is excited to be partnering with Homestead Tee to offer you a variety of stylish and comfortable Renew apparel. Located in Hamilton, Homestead Tee is conveniently located to offer you free pick up of your orders. Or pay to have your orders shipped directly to your home.
We are thrilled to begin this new partnership and so grateful that Homestead Tee will donate a portion of every sale back to Renew!
Lots of great Christmas gift items for everyone! Thank you for partnering in the mission in this way and for proudly sharing Renew in the community with every purchase!
Your partnership had a tremendous impact on our community in 2025. Take a look at the full Impact Report and celebrate with us all that God has done through your generosity and service.
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