October Ministry Spotlight - Rainbow of Hope Texas - Hands, Horses, and Hope

Demetra, Ann, Annette, Jack

Many years ago, God showed Ann Henderson a vision for what is now Rainbow of Hope Texas (ROHT). Years later, while out riding motorcycles and looking at property, she and her husband, Jack, came upon a place with a blue arena and a silver star. Ann knew instantly—it was the realization of what God had spoken to her years before. They were able to purchase the home and land surrounding that arena and lease the arena and barn, which includes classroom space. In 2020, in the midst of the pandemic, Rainbow of Hope Texas was officially birthed.

During a season when our nation was fearful and isolated, ROHT became a place where young adults with challenges could be outdoors, connect with horses, and continue growing in community and skill-building. Today, even as life has returned to “normal,” ROHT continues to provide a serene space for adults with physical and emotional challenges—as well as veterans—to connect with nature, work with their hands, and experience healing through equine therapy and hands-on activities.

Demetra, one of the teaching volunteers at ROHT, shared that students with special needs often have opportunities to continue in school until age 22, but not all qualify. The need for resources for adults ages 18–22 with unique challenges is great. ROHT gives these students something to look forward to—“Rainbow Days” filled with hope, friendship, pottery, equine activities, fitness, music, and life-skill development.

I had the joy of spending time with the students (Kadence, Chase, Christina, and Johnny) as they worked on pottery projects they plan to sell at a local market. Don, from Don’s Pottery in Rosharon, visits regularly to teach. On this particular day, students were glazing dishes and jewelry holders they had previously rolled, stamped, and shaped. I was so touched by how intentional every part of the class was—each task designed to develop both skill and confidence.

As each student arrived, they were greeted with excitement. Ms. Kathy and Don explained the day’s goal, then invited students to choose a glaze color from sample tiles. Once they’d picked their color, they located the matching jar in the cabinet, reading the label themselves. Volunteers were there to support, but each student was encouraged to complete tasks independently. When challenges arose, guidance came through gentle questions and coaching rather than doing it for them—helping students problem-solve and succeed on their own.

At the tables, students shook their glaze jars, poured carefully, and began painting. We marked guidelines on the bottom of each piece to help them know where not to apply glaze. The atmosphere was filled with joy, patience, and encouragement. Students naturally helped one another, and some even stepped into quiet leadership roles. Don and the volunteers modeled such kindness and care—it was beautiful to witness.

While they worked, I stepped away for a quick tour, some horse snuggles, and an interview with Ann and Jack Henderson.

Ann shared how God gave her the vision for ROHT and how He faithfully led them to the property where that vision would come to life. She explained that the classes aren’t just about social development but also about building life and job skills. Through their Back to Basics class, students learn equine care, barn maintenance (like mucking stalls, sweeping, and filling hay bags), and grooming. As students grow in confidence, many begin mentoring others—developing leadership and responsibility in the process.

Through partnerships with local nonprofits and businesses such as True to Life Ministries, Harvest for the Hungry, Don’s Pottery, and Spacious, students have the opportunity to put those life, job, and social skills into action. True to Life provides internship opportunities at their Refresh boutique, while Harvest for the Hungry allows students to take part in growing, harvesting, and preparing food. Don teaches pottery classes at ROHT, and Spacious brings movement and fitness to life through exercise and dance classes.

In 2023, ROHT launched its veteran program, Thunder Hooves. God had given Jack that name and vision back in 2013—a picture of veterans from every branch gathered in that same arena. Through a partnership with The Warrior’s Refuge (one of KJIC’s CROP partners), that vision came to life. One of the residents of The Warrior’s Refuge even helped design the Thunder Hooves logo! This program provides equine therapy as well as hands-on job training through carpentry and welding classes.

ROHT is always welcoming new volunteers, and their long-term dream is to expand into a full day-habilitation program, hosting students Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Rainbow of Hope Texas truly lives up to its name—a place where hope, healing, and purpose come together under the beautiful promise of God’s rainbow. Ann shared with me that over the years, she’s seen 107 rainbows from the property, each one a gentle reminder of God’s faithfulness, provision and an encouragement to keep going in the hard times.

We at KJIC are so grateful for our listeners, volunteers, and supporters. Your prayers, encouragement, and generosity make it possible for us to highlight ministries like Rainbow of Hope Texas—sharing the incredible ways God is moving through His people. Because of your support, we’re able to shine a light on stories of hope, healing, and faith that remind us all of God’s goodness in our communities.