Our History
The riding program was founded by Jodi Geerlings in 2009. The following year, Jodi and Phyllis DeHaan both achieved their Instructor Certification with PATH International and began offering lessons at Rusty Spurs Ranch. Since, the program has experienced tremendous growth, and we have continued to add horses, staff members, and volunteers to support program needs each year.
Some of the highlights in our history include:
2012
Shaina Faber Strikwerda joined the team and became a Certified Instructor
2013
Melissa Conner was hired as the first Executive Director and Advanced Instructor
2013
2014
Renew began a Capital Campaign to raise funds for a build out at the current Rusty Spurs location where the program leased land
2015
The program was able to add horses and hire additional instructors as well as a part-time Barn Manager and Volunteer Coordinator
2015
2018
We currently serve nearly 100 students each week and have a growing waiting list. Renew has purchased 20 acres on the south side of Holland, where new facilities will be built to accommodate our current and anticipated growth in number of students and programs offered
