Horses. People. Partners in Learning.
Our team is made up of genlte horses and passionte people who are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive enviroment where children can grow in confidence and discover the joy of reading.
Founder & Program Director
Pam Hackbarth
Founder & Certified Horse Powered Reading® Facilitator
My name is Pam Reipold, and I am a certified facilitator through the Horse Powered Reading® program. Horses have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up around racehorses, where my father worked as a horse trainer, and over the years I have developed a deep appreciation for the lessons horses can teach us about confidence, communication, patience, and perseverance.
As the founder of Reins & Reading at Algun Dia Ranch, my goal is to create a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment where children can discover their strengths and experience success. I believe every child is capable of growth when given the right opportunities, and horses have a remarkable way of helping children build confidence while learning valuable life skills.
Through Horse Powered Reading®, children participate in hands-on literacy activities alongside our equine partners. These experiences help develop reading skills, communication, problem-solving abilities, emotional awareness, and self-confidence in a way that is both meaningful and memorable.
When I’m not facilitating sessions, you’ll find me caring for the horses, working around the ranch, gardening, or enjoying the beauty of Grant County, New Mexico.
I look forward to welcoming your family to Algun Dia Ranch and sharing the incredible journey of learning alongside horses.
“Helping children grow through reading, horses, and connection.”
The Gentle Professor
Sweetie
Sweetie has spent her life helping people learn. Before joining our team at Algun Dia Ranch, she was part of the equine program at the University of Findlay in Ohio, where she helped college students develop their horsemanship skills and knowledge. Throughout her career, Sweetie has been a lesson horse, show horse, trail horse, broodmare, and trusted teacher to riders of all ages.
Today, she brings that same patience, wisdom, and kindness to the children of Reins & Reading. Sweetie has a remarkable ability to help children feel safe, confident, and capable. Whether she’s standing quietly during a reading activity or encouraging a child to step outside their comfort zone, she reminds us that learning happens best when we feel supported and understood.
Sweetie teaches us that confidence grows one small success at a time.
The Gentle Giant
Montana
Montana is our calm and steady leader. Standing over 16 hands tall, he often captures attention with his size, but it’s his quiet presence that makes the biggest impression. Montana teaches children the importance of clear communication, consistency, and confidence.
He doesn’t respond to force or frustration—he responds to leadership. Children quickly learn that when they communicate clearly and believe in themselves, Montana is happy to follow their lead.
Montana teaches us that true leadership comes from confidence, not size.
The Mighty Mini
Stella
Don’t let Stella’s small size fool you—she has a huge personality! Stella is often a favorite among children because she is approachable, curious, and full of character. She helps children learn that leadership isn’t about being the biggest or strongest. It’s about kindness, patience, and communication.
Stella encourages children to find their voice, trust themselves, and discover that even small actions can make a big difference.
Stella teaches us that even the smallest voices can make a big impact.
The Little Learner
Enzo
Enzo is the youngest member of our team and is growing up alongside our students. Curious, brave, and always ready to explore something new, Enzo reminds us what it means to be a learner. As he discovers the world around him, children get a front-row seat to watch his growth and development.
From learning to wear a halter to making new friends and exploring the ranch, Enzo approaches each day with curiosity and enthusiasm. He reminds us that learning is a journey and that every expert was once a beginner.
Enzo teaches us that curiosity, courage, and a willingness to try are some of life’s greatest strengths.