A Sanctuary for Humans & Horses in Valle Hermoso, San Miguel de Allende.
Rescuing and transforming Humans and Horses
From Mission to sanctuary
Esperanza Equina: Hope for the Equines
This foundation was born in memory of a mare I could not save.
I found her standing beneath the scorching sun—tied, without shade, food, or water. Her frail body showed signs of distress and dehydration.
The look in her eyes said everything: “Save me today. Tomorrow will be too late.”
But she wasn’t mine to free, and that day, I was leaving town, I felt I could not do anything for her. I promised myself I’d return after my trip to rescue her. Two days later, I received the message I’ll never forget—she had died, tangled and strangled in her rope.
The shock and sorrow was heart felt and deep. That evening, I began the work to create a foundation in her honor. Because she never had a name, I gave her one—Esperanza Equina, Hope for the Equines.
After eight months of dedication, Esperanza Equina is now a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization devoted to rescuing, rehabilitating, and retiring horses in need. Our mission is to give them the peace, safety, and care they deserve.
In return, these horses offer gentle companionship through equine-assisted therapy—helping humans, just as they have been helped.
Esperanza Equina: rescuing, transforming, and healing—humans and equines alike.
This vision became reality through the generosity of the Hermoso family, whose kindness and open hearts provided the land where the sanctuary now stands.
Nestled in the serene landscape of Valle Hermoso, just minutes from San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, our horses now live freely—surrounded by dignity, care, and love.
Thanks to such compassion, Esperanza Equina truly has found its sanctuary.
But we need your help! There are many equines needing help!
Stephanie Richmond, a Family Constellation Therapy Facilitator, discovered the profound healing presence of horses through her therapeutic work.
After years of facilitating Family Constellation groups in Austin, Texas, she returned home to Mexico, and began incorporating horses into her therapeutic practice. Along this journey, she witnessed heartbreaking cases of horse abuse and neglect - making it painfully clear that a safe haven for at-risk hoses was not just important, but urgently necessary.
When Stephanie’s vision aligned with the Hermoso Families’ mission, Esperanza Equina found a home.. More than just a sanctuary, it is a place where rescued horses find peace and, in return, offer their wisdom and healing energy to those who come and witness their habitat,
At Valle Hermoso, these horses are not only given a second chance—they become part of a greater purpose. To help fund the sanctuary, it is open to serve as a wellness retreat, offering diverse therapeutic experiences in a breathtaking natural setting. Here, the bond between humans and horses is honored, and every soul—equine and human alike—has the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive.
There are so many stories to tell. Most too graphic and difficult to re-tell. Some fotos are heart wrenching as well. We trust you can get the idea of the dire need to help these gentle souls.
Stephanie Richmond