Behind every great program is a dedicated group of individuals whose passion, care, and expertise make it all possible. From experienced trainers to enthusiastic volunteers, each member of our team plays a vital role in creating a positive and supportive environment for both horses and riders. Here’s a look at some of the familiar faces you will see here at the ranch.
Meet The Founder – Vollie Heitkamp
A life long love of horses, which simply started with owning a horse to love and trial ride, led to competitve pursuits in the 4H, WSCA and ultimately to AQHA breed shows. As pursuits continued a love of starting young horses become evident so did the heart for helping others identify and accomplish their dreams. Vollies love of horses and humans lead to a natural coupling of those interests with a desire to encourage, empower, equip others to pursue thier hearts call with a spirit of excellence. It was in 2006 through prayerful submission to a nudge Vollie stepped out in faith and followed the leading of the Holy Spirit. That was beginning of what has been a wildly beautiful journey. With Gratitude for the privilege to serve and excitement for the possibilities each day holds Vollie continues to step into each new day intended to support and lead the organizational mission of Hope Rides as it aligns with the priorities of heaven and serves to bring Glory To God.
Meet Lesson Instructor – Eve Heitkamp
Eve began riding when she was 5 years old spending her time showing at wsca game and pleasure shows. Since then she spends every day continuing to build her craft and devoting her time and skills to the ranch, wether that be teaching lessons, tuning up horses, or caring for the daily up keep around the farm. Her heart for seeing every child and animal she works with succeed and come into their fullness is what drives her continue serving here at Hope Rides. When she is on her own time she doesn’t get far from the ranch, she spends her time riding her Barrel horse Goose and her Hunt Seat horse Rudy. This past year she spent time competing and growing her skills at the APHA world show competing in the Youth Hunter Under Saddle and the Youth Showmanship. This past year she has spent her time adding the western all around events to her agenda. In addition to her showing ventures she spends time running barrels and competing at the Pink and Ruby Buckle on her second horse Goose. Eve is looking forward to sharing her time and knowledge with the next group of aspiring horse advocates.
Meet Lesson Instructor – Katey Ramos
Katey’s passion of horses began here at Hope Rides back in 2011. She was first a participant in the Hope Rides programs such as the session program, shine, horse camps, and private lessons. She then became confident that Hope Rides is where not only she felt led to but ultimately belogned. In 2014 she started teaching lessons at Hope Rides and spending any free time she had at the ranch. Since then her involvement at the ranch has only grown more, as she assist with the day in and day out work at the ranch and still teaches lessons in addition. When her time is not being spent serving the Hope Rides community, she enjoys riding her Pink and Ruby Buckle mare Letti and hitting barrel races on the weekend. She would tell you that when she first stepped foot on the farm back in 2011 she would have never imagined the blessings, opportunities, and the family that would be built.
Meet Lesson Instructor – Faith Watz
Faith’s horse journey began at the age of nine when she attended her first horse camp. Over the next decade, her passion deepened as she dedicated herself to volunteering and working at the camp. When that chapter came to a close, a new opportunity emerged at Hope Rides, where she became involved four years ago. Throughout high school, Faith participated in numerous 4-H and FFA activities. Her skills in the saddle expanded across both western and hunter/jumper disciplines, allowing her to gain valuable experience. During her first semesters in college, Faith competed as a barrel racer on the rodeo team while pursuing a degree in agricultural business. Today, she continues to contribute at Hope Rides, teaching lessons and assisting with daily operations on the ranch. Faith finds great joy in using her skills and knowledge to inspire and empower the next generation of horse enthusiasts.