| About Us |
The idea for a program such as this began as a dream of our director, Diane Odell, who has worked with horses since her youth. She found hope through relating and caring for a horse, and a pathway back to connecting with people. Later, operating a boarding and training stable, she was able to see the tremendous healing power of a child - horse relationship. A similar vision was brought into focus for Carl Linn when he rescued two horses just a couple of years ago on his 350 acre ranch Providentially, just this past year, Diane and Carl met and through amazing circumstances, Morning Star Youth Ranch was started.
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Our program director, Diane Odell, with her rescued horse, Selah |
| Meet Carl Linn and read how Morning Star captured Carl’s heart |
In 2005 Carl Linn took in Libby – a seriously neglected horse in need of a safe and nurturing home. Originally he planned on finding her another home, but it soon became apparent that Libby was happy at the Linn ranch and was enjoying hanging out with the cows (I think she believes she is a cow). Carl was concerned about caring for Libby properly and through his son Matt, he got in contact with Jani Meyers who immediately put him in touch with Diane.
There is more to this story. For the last 20 years, even though Carl didn’t make his living on the ranch as his father and grandfather did, he knew in his heart there was a Divine plan for the land. He wanted the ranch to have purpose, with as he puts it, “eternal consequences.” When Diane and Jani began to share with Carl the vision and dream of using rescued horses to minister to the youth of San Luis County, Carl was hooked and excited. He knew this was what the ranch was meant for and he and his wife Arcy wanted to be a part of it. Carl has a huge heart for kids and horses and is looking forward to opening day. Matt and his wife Amy are just as excited and can’t wait for the sounds of children and horses to fill the ranch. |
Carl Linn with his rescued horse, Libby |
| Please check back for more about the folks behind Morning Star as we update our website. Thanks for your interest! |
Photo of Carole with her horse, Seca. |
Carole Hansen is our secretary and all around right arm. Carole was given the book Hope Rising for her birthday several years ago and was deeply touched by the stories of what was happening at a small ranch in central Oregon. Later, a group of friends who shared the vision of Morning Star, visited the place in Hope Rising called Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch for an information clinic. Inspired by Diane's vision and encouraged by God's timing, Morning Star Youth Ranch was becoming a reality.
Carole grew up with horses in her life and knows the special bond between horses and children. Carole has an Arabian mare named Seca and her husband Roger has a miniature horse named Snickers.
Carole says, "It has been so awesome to watch how God has been putting all the pieces of the puzzle together in every area of this venture. It's exciting to be hanging on for the ride!" |
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