Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, GoHorseShow would like to spread the word about this amazing non-profit.
PINK Horse, Inc./LopeForHope.com is a 501c3 non-profit organization formed to help support Cowgirls undergoing cancer treatment. Money raised via donation, and product sales, is used to provide meals, childcare, transportation, and other services for Cowgirls fighting cancer. A percentage of all proceeds generated are donated directly to Cowgirls undergoing treatment and they appreciate your support in the battle against breast cancer.
Why Horses? The President-CEO of Lope for Hope, Renee Kozlowski is five year survivor and cowgirl.
“We all need need hope and inspiration,” Renee states. “I have been an active member of the Michigan Quarter Horse Association and AQHA for many years. While going through cancer treatment, I personally witnessed the hardships that some families endure during treatment for this horrific disease. For many simple necessities such as transportation or childcare is beyond reach. As a Cowgirl I was and am truly blessed with the support from my posse of horse loving family and friends.”
Renee’s past experience in marketing and sales of embellished clothing enabled her to create LopeForHope.com. Through social media marketing and leaving their Hoof Prints throughout the Midwest, they have become a branded clothing name in the equine industry.
The nonprofit will be running a special on their October t-shirts. Please click here for more information.
More About Lope for Hope
1. What qualifications does someone have to meet to receive assistance from Lope for Hope?
We require a complete application for assistance be filled out with the following parameters: Cowgirl past or present, verification of cancer treatment and proof of financial need. Each application is reviewed and selected by joint committee.
2. When was the organization established as a non-profit, and how many women do you think you’ve helped since then?
LopeForHope.com was established in 2008, while I was undergoing cancer treatment the next stages were being planned. PINK Horse, Inc 501(c)(3) home of LopeForHope.com was established and approved in 2010. We came to the conclusion that PINK Horse, Inc. covers all breeds of horses enabling us to further our goal. My dream came to life in 2010. The first event attended was the “Triple Challenge Futurity” hosted by Tom Powers in Berrien Springs, MI. We had no idea what the reception would be. We were riding into new territory with our “Lopers Riding Shotgun”. We traveled to this event with our heat press in the rear tack of my horse trailer, a few tables and what we thought was enough inventory, to make it a week. We sold out in 2 days and came home. What we experienced this first ride out was to set our Mission for the future. We shared Hope for the Fighters, Joy for Survivors and Tears for the taken. What an emotional rollercoaster!
Since our Mission began we have benefitted approximately 100 Cowgirls either financially or by donations to fundraising events being held for Cowgirls across the country. Our trademarked “Fight Like a Cowgirl” and “Buck Cancer” logowear have raised thousands of dollars at these events.
4. Can you explain how fundraising events work and what types of events you hold?
We have hosted benefit horse shows, trail rides, online auctions, we travel throughout the Midwest attending equine events, website sales and of course DONATIONS are a tax exempt write off. Online Auctions can benefit one or two Cowgirls depending on the amount of items being sold. On line Fundraising events include T Shirt Sales, bracelets, tote bags etc. where a portion of each sale is donated directly to a Cowgirl. We rely heavily on the beneficiary and their friends to help us reach our goal. We have donated anywhere between $250 up to $1500 depending on how many friends help. One Cowgirl did not make it to the end of the fundraiser and we donated $1200 towards medical costs to her family.
5. Is there anything else our readers should know about your organization?
PINK Horse, Inc. and LopeForHope.com would like to reach further across the country attending equine events. Our Mission of the importance of early detection and awareness campaign has touched many lives. We can’t do this alone it takes a Posse. We have a following on Facebook closing in on 40K. Our presence has inspired many Cowgirls while sitting in the Chemo chair or recuperating after. My feeling is if we can make someone smile for a couple of minutes we have accomplished our goal.
“Fight Like a Cowgirl”
Renee Kozlowski
“Head Loper”
