Harnessing Hope Receives 2025 Nonprofit Spirit of the Community Award

Blue River Community Foundation is proud to honor Harnessing Hope with the 2025 Nonprofit Spirit of the Community Award.

This award recognizes a nonprofit organization making a deep and lasting impact in Shelby County, and Harnessing Hope has done just that, bringing healing, connection, and hope to many individuals in its very first year.

Founded in 2024 by Jennifer Wright, Harnessing Hope is a nonprofit equine-assisted therapy program offering therapeutic riding, driving, and unmounted learning experiences for children, adults, and families facing a variety of challenges. What began as a vision to serve others through the power of horses quickly became a transformative reality. In its first year, Harnessing Hope became a fully accredited 501(c)(3) organization, earned certification from the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.), and welcomed over 200 participants into its care.

Jennifer’s passion for equine therapy is matched by her remarkable qualifications. She holds certifications as a PATH Intl. Therapeutic Riding Instructor, Equine Specialist in Mental Health, and is one of the few Therapeutic Driving Instructors in the Midwest. But more than the credentials, it is her heart and compassion that make Harnessing Hope a place where every person feels valued, accepted, and safe.  “As a disability and equine therapy advocate, I am excited to nominate Jen,” shared Becky Lohman. “With a heart full of love, she is developing a mission truly unique and valuable to Shelby County and the surrounding areas.”

Harnessing Hope is more than a therapy program; it is a community. Participants find strength and confidence through individualized sessions, and the organization’s reach extends far beyond its pastures. In its first year, Harnessing Hope partnered with nine community organizations and four local schools, offering impactful experiences that go beyond traditional therapy.  Harnessing Hope's commitment to accessibility and flexibility ensures that no one is turned away due to ability, background, or financial hardship. As Deena Marsh shared in her nomination, “Jen has opened her heart and home to fulfill a much-needed equine therapy service in our community. There are so many who benefit, from children and adults to the volunteers themselves. The Wright family offers these services from the kindness of their heart and a deep desire to help others.”
Another nominator, Pam Bassett, noted the atmosphere of connection and care that defines the experience at Harnessing Hope. “They provide services to such a wide variety of people. They connect with so many in meaningful ways. It’s such a great experience for all who go there.”

Blue River Community Foundation is honored to recognize Harnessing Hope as the 2025 Nonprofit Spirit of the Community. Jennifer and her team have created a place where healing happens not just through horses, but through the kindness, dignity, and love they offer every day.

Congratulations to Harnessing Hope for this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for showing what’s possible when compassion leads the way.

The Shelby County Post is a digital newspaper producing news, sports, obituaries and more without a pay wall or subscription needed.