Nonprofits Create Community is NIA’s theme for 2026, as we celebrate the ways that nonprofits come through for their communities in spite of all the challenges facing them. In this series, meet some NIA-insured nonprofits who share their stories of creating community in their own words.
Meet Spur’n Up Hope of Amelia, VA
Lee Williams, Founder and President of Spur’n Up Hope, explains:
“Spur’n Up Hope empowers individuals through equine‑assisted programs that inspire healing, confidence, and connection.
By bringing people and horses together, we create a welcoming community where people can grow, feel understood, and discover hope.”
How does your nonprofit and your mission create community for the people and places you serve?
Bringing people and horses together in a grounded, supportive environment.
“Spur’n Up Hope creates community by bringing people together in a healing, nature‑based environment where horses play a central role in connection and growth.
As an equine‑assisted nonprofit, we use the unique presence of horses to help individuals feel grounded, supported, and understood.
Our programs encourage participants to build trust, develop confidence, and form meaningful relationships — not only with the horses, but with each other.
By offering a safe, welcoming space where people can experience the calming power of horses and the support of a caring community, we strengthen both the individuals we serve and the broader community around them.”
What are your nonprofit’s biggest challenges or obstacles to creating community?
Capacity limits due to funding and the costs of running an equine facility.
“Our biggest challenges include funding, transportation access for participants, and the capacity limits that come with running an equine facility.
Horses require specialized care and space, which means we can only serve a limited number of individuals at a time.
With more financial support and infrastructure, we could broaden our reach and create even more opportunities for connection and community.”
