Horses are an important part of life at the Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranches. Residents are encouraged to take part in the riding program, especially in the summer months. Early morning and sunset rides over the Ranch's 528 acres of gravel roads and wooded trails usually include a trek to the banks of the White River near Lock and Dam #2. There, the air is cooler and a good ride becomes a great ride through fields of knee high Bermuda grass.

Many residents strike up friendships with a particular horse and build memories that last a lifetime. Memories of a large, warm animal who always listened and kept their secrets safe. A four-legged friend who was always glad to see them whether they carried a feed bucket or a saddle, and returned them safely from many adventures.

A friend who gave them confidence and a sense of responsibility, more than likely at a critical time in their life when their self-esteem was low and responsibility was a word they did not understand.

A child who grows up around horses can realize many assets from a relationship with these large creatures. A horse can be a gentle and forgiving friend who at the same time requires respect and understanding of its fragile spirit and great strength.

A horse can teach young people how to foresee the consequences of a quick action, or the advantage of a well-thought out move. A child who lives around horses assumes an air of confidence, an awareness of who he is that is based on a grass roots way of life that hasn't changed much in hundreds of years. A confidence that will carry them into adulthood as a stronger person.

This is the power of horses... and an integral part of the Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranches.