Named after the matriarch of our herd, Melody was one of Letitia’s true heart horses—a partner, a teacher, and a steady presence woven into every part of her life. Their bond was unmistakable. Anyone who saw them together could feel the depth of love and trust between them, and many found themselves longing for that same kind of connection with a horse. Melody showed people what was possible: a relationship built on understanding, respect, and pure partnership. From riding bridleless to helping teach others how to care for and work with horses, she inspired countless moments of learning, healing, and joy. She revealed that a horse–human bond is far more than skill—it is soul.
After years in the show world, Melody needed a forever home… and Letitia needed her just as deeply. Their paths came together exactly when they were meant to, forming the foundation of a dream: a place where horses could heal, and where humans could heal alongside them. When it came time to name the sanctuary, there was never any question. It had to be Melody. Her spirit, her gentleness, and her legacy continue to guide everything we do.
We are a local nonprofit—umbrellaed under Chappy & Friends—dedicated to taking in and caring for horses who have been let down by humans. Many of the horses who come to us were cast aside when they no longer served a human purpose. They arrive carrying both physical injuries and deep emotional scars.
At Melody’s Haven of Hope, we take them in with compassion, address their medical and physical needs, and then begin the delicate work of rebuilding their trust in people. We feel truly blessed to provide a safe, loving home where they can live out their days with dignity, comfort, and peace. We currently care for 22 horses, including 11 sanctuary horses who will remain with us for life. Monthly care costs average $625–$825 per horse, depending on their medical needs, age, and dietary requirements.
Our Mission: Healing Horses, Helping Humans
Our work extends far beyond rescue and rehabilitation. We partner our sanctuary horses with youth in the community, inviting them to participate in liberty work, groundwork, and daily care. As the horses regain strength and confidence, the youth grow alongside them—developing life skills such as:
Confidence and self-esteem — Responsibility and leadership — Empathy, patience, and compassion — Communication and emotional awareness — Respect for themselves, others, and the animals they care for
These young people learn what it means to nurture a living being, rebuild trust, and show love again—lessons that stay with them for life.
While medical care is always a priority, we’ve seen time and again that human connection is equally essential. A kind touch, a quiet moment of understanding, or a shared breath can help heal emotional wounds that medicine alone cannot reach.
2025 Sponsors:
- Depaolo Equine Concepts– Horse supplements created by a Veterinarian.
- Gordon Properties – Afull-service residential property managers
- Red Chair – Art and painting events and vegetable program.
- In Touch Physical Therapy – A full service physical therapy clinic unlike any you’ve experienced
- Lawyers Title (FNTS Holdings LLC) – Local title company
We have a variety of ways to help from donating or sponsoring the Gala, helping with barn chores, or donating one ot the many ways listed below including adding monthly items needed to your Amazon cart.
We want to thank our partners
Anderson Hay and Grain – A Promise in Every BaleSince 1960. Working with Anderson Hay has been such a gift! Jess took the time to understand our herd and our mission. Everyone at Anderson — from the operations team to the office — has been kind, supportive, and genuine. Knowing the hay is tested, consistent, and backed by KER research allows us to focus on what matters most: caring for our horses and mentoring the kids who love them. It’s proof that when quality hay meets a heart-driven mission, incredible things can happen.
DePaolo Equine Concepts – Dr. Mark and his staff have been educating, supporting, and partnering with us to keep the herd healthy, evaluate health and options for care, try new ways to help the herd be healthy and comfortable. Dr Mark, DVM. uses his experience, innovation, and a holistic approach to equine well-being and has proven time and again that he is all about helping equines through research and knwledge to live a lone and healthy life.
Click here to to see our other sponsors and supports of Melody’s Haven of Hope at Oregon Horsemanship.
