Good Shepherd Healing Minisitreis Horse Rescue was established in 2011 with the aim of providing care, rehabilitation, and rehoming for horses in need. However, in September of 2023, the program encountered significant challenges that threatened its existence. Tragically, the owner and president of the rescue, Maria Jones, passed away, leaving a void in leadership and a sense of uncertainty among the staff and volunteers.
Adding to the already difficult situation, Good Shepherd Healing Ministries Horse Rescue faced the daunting prospect of potential code violation fines amounting to over $40,000. This financial burden, coupled with the looming threat of having their beloved horses seized due to inadequate care, created a sense of urgency within the organization. The future of the rescue and the well-being of the horses hung in the balance.
Despite these overwhelming obstacles, the community rallied together to support Good Shepherd Healing Ministries Horse Rescue. In a remarkable display of unity and determination, the organization underwent a transformative journey in just five months. To honor Maria Jones and her legacy, Maria’s son, Thomas Quinlan, joined the team.
Good Shepherd is working on developing a new name as we start our next journey. GSHM stands as a testament to the power of collective effort and compassion. It is an Experiential Learning Center and Rescue, designed by Thomas Quinlan. the first of its kind, specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of rescue horses. The facility provides an optimal environment for the horses, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being. Through meticulous care, the horses have regained their health, happiness, and a newfound sense of calm. Are we a rescue? Yes, we focus on restoring our horses, creating relationships, and improving their path to adoption!
None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of the volunteers who selflessly devote their time and energy to the cause. Their dedication and love for the horses has been instrumental in the success of GSHM. The organization extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who played a part in this remarkable journey. With renewed hope and determination, GSHM eagerly looks forward to the future and is excited to see where their vision will lead them next.
At Good Shepherd, our mission is twofold: to rescue, restore, and find forever homes for equines in need, and to offer transformative equine-assisted programs for individuals and families from diverse backgrounds.
Established in 2011 as a horse rescue initiative, we operate as a 501c3 charitable organization, driven by compassion and dedication to the well-being of both humans and horses.
At Good Shepherd, our primary goal is to help individuals establish a special bond with our horses. Through comprehensive training programs, our dedicated volunteers acquire the skills to effectively communicate with our horses and fulfill their needs. As an experiential learning center and rescue, we are committed to reintegrating horses into a thriving herd environment, often for the first time. Our utmost priority is to ensure that every horse receives the necessary support and care they require. We are unwavering in our dedication to providing the highest quality of life for each horse that enters our facility.
Our programs cater to youth, teens, adults, and families, providing opportunities for personal growth, emotional healing, and skill development through interaction with our rescued horses. With a commitment to providing restorative techniques tailored to the unique needs of our equine companions, we strive to ensure that every horse finds a forever home that offers the love, care, and support they deserve, thus fulfilling our vision of creating brighter futures for both horses and humans alike.
Our amazing team of volunteers are committed to helping our horses in any way possible. Without their loyal help, we couldn't accomplish what we do. That being said, we ALWAYS need more help!
We are an operating farm so please make an appointment to tour our faciltiy.
288 West Smoketree Street, Apache Junction, AZ 85120, us
Mon | 07:00 am – 06:00 pm | |
Tue | 07:00 am – 06:00 pm | |
Wed | 07:00 am – 06:00 pm | |
Thu | 07:00 am – 06:00 pm | |
Fri | 07:00 am – 06:00 pm | |
Sat | 07:00 am – 06:00 pm | |
Sun | 07:00 am – 06:00 pm |
Volunteers must attend an orientation prior to helping. We utilize Signup Genius to help us - volunteers please be sure to sign up!
Cindy, Director/President, has been a principal in Phoenix, Arizona for over 20 years. She holds a master's degree in education and a certificate in educational leadership. She has also worked with the City of Scottsdale for over 30 years doing special events. Her experience with non-profit organizations includes Arizona Special Olympics, Arizona Dream Catchers, and the Wilson Dream Foundation. She has taken her leadership skills, desire to help non-profits, and her love for horses to the Quinlan Equine Academy.
Thomas (TJ), the proprietor of Quinlan Horse Training and Director of Quinlan Equine Academy and Rescue, brings with him a vast amount of knowledge and expertise in the horse industry, accumulated over 35 years. As a skilled curriculum designer and dedicated instructor, TJ is well-versed in different horse breeds, making him an invaluable asset. His exceptional training abilities stem from his capacity to form profound connections with horses. Additionally, TJ is renowned for his composed demeanor and aptitude for collaborative work. TJ is responsible for the day-to-day operations, specifically care of our rescue horses, classes and clinics, and implementation of programs and grants.
Douglas Jacks, a resident of Peoria, Arizona, currently holds employment with Hutchison Western, Inc. in Denver, Colorado. With an extensive career spanning over 40 years, Doug has garnered invaluable experience in the farm, agriculture, and equine industries. His passion for horses has been a consistent thread throughout his professional journey, having owned and worked with them over the years. Beyond his dedication to his work, Doug is actively engaged in various family and community activities, embodying a commitment to both personal and collective well-being.
Taylor Jacks is a recent graduate of Grand Canyon University, holding a degree in Marketing. With a passion for strategic communication and brand development, Taylor brings fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to Quinlan Equine Academy and Rescue. During her academic career, Taylor demonstrated a strong aptitude for creating impactful marketing campaigns, utilizing both traditional and digital media channels. Her coursework and projects have equipped her with skills in market research, social media strategy, content creation, and consumer behavior analysis. Taylor's commitment to community service and her love for animals led her to volunteer at various animal shelters and participate in equine therapy programs. Her experience in these areas has deepened her understanding of the unique needs of rescue organizations and the importance of effective marketing in raising awareness and support.
"Bobcat Bill" Patterson is not just a successful businessman in the concrete industry—he's also a dedicated horseman whose passion for equines runs deep. With a lifetime of experience working with horses, Bill's connection to these majestic animals goes beyond mere hobby—it's a way of life. In Bill, we've found a true partner whose expertise, dedication, and love of horses are essential to our organization's success. His ability to bridge the gap between business and equestrianism makes him a valuable asset and a cherished member of our team. With Bill by our side, we're confident that we can overcome any obstacle and continue to make a positive impact in the lives of horses and humans alike.
RJ is a 3rd generation Arizonian who grew up around horses and is a passionate advocate for all animals. RJ has over 18 years in Public Safety, including Firefighting, Emergency Medicine and Law Enforcement. With these careers she has developed strong problem solving and organization skills as well as the ability to relate to people from all walks of life. In her off time, RJ is an accomplished photographer and artist with experience in graphic design and marketing which she brings to us in fundraising and social media management.
Karen Kladakis is a seasoned business professional and the owner of a successful consulting company. With over two years of dedicated involvement with Quinlan Equine Academy and Rescue, Karen has been a pivotal figure in supporting the organization’s mission and operations. Karen's commitment to the rescue goes beyond her professional skills. Her passion for animal welfare and her hands-on approach have made her a beloved figure among the staff and volunteers. She regularly participates in volunteer activities, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.
Theresa Patterson is a dedicated nurse with a profound love for horses. As our treasurer, she has embraced the challenge of learning QuickBooks to ensure our financials are in perfect order. Theresa's compassionate nature extends beyond her professional career; she is deeply committed to supporting the needs of our rescue. Her meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication make her an invaluable asset to our team. With a heart as big as her passion for horses, Theresa brings both care and competence to everything she does.
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GSHR/Quinlan Equine enforces a non-discrimination policy regarding staff, employees, governing board and service based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability or national origin.