Dear Southern Reins Family,

Fall is in full swing at Southern Reins, and October has been a month filled with excitement, connection, and meaning. From milestone celebrations to remarkable events taking shape, the energy around the farm is inspiring as we continue to grow our mission and community.

We are thrilled to announce that the 4th Annual Southern Supper presented by Kimery Wealth Management is officially sold out! On November 6, more than 200 supporters will gather at Memphis Country Club for a wonderful evening filled with great food, laughter, and friendship - a celebration of the life-changing work happening at Southern Reins. A heartfelt thank-you to all of our sponsors, donors, and guests whose generosity makes this event possible.

October also marked a major milestone - our 10-Year Anniversary Celebration! Despite the rain, the barn was filled with smiles, live music, and stories that brought a decade of memories to life shared for our participants, families, volunteers, donors, and supporters who joined us. One of the most meaningful moments was the proclamation by Collierville Mayor Maureen Fraser declaring October 26 as Southern Reins Center for Equine Therapy Day in the Town of Collierville.

Looking ahead, we are excited for Dr. Temple Grandin’s visit next month, a truly special opportunity for our community to hear from one of the most respected voices in animal science and autism advocacy.

Even more happening this season, we are pleased to introduce the launch of our Caregiver Equine Mental Health Session, developed to support parents and caregivers through meaningful interaction with horses and intentional time for personal well-being.

As we reflect on an extraordinary month and look forward to all that is ahead, we are so grateful for the people who make our mission possible. Thank you for being part of our farm family - and our story of hope and inspiration.

What a day to remember! Our 10-Year Anniversary Celebration on Sunday was a beautiful reflection of everything that makes Southern Reins extraordinary - the spirit of community, the power of connection, and the joy that fills our farm every day. The rain couldn't dampen the excitement as the barn came alive with laughter, live music from Devil Train, delicious food from The Fry Guy and Off The Square Catering, and warm friendships that have grown through the years. One of the most touching moments came when Parker Brown, our very first participant, returned all the way from Texas to share how Southern Reins has changed and continues to shape his life.

The afternoon reached a defining moment when Collierville Mayor Maureen Fraser presented a proclamation declaring October 26 as “Southern Reins Center for Equine Therapy Day” in the Town of Collierville - a meaningful tribute to a decade of service and impact created through our mission.

We would like to share a heartfelt thank you to our volunteer and FOX-13 News Anchor, Valerie Calhoun, for featuring our celebration, and to everyone who helped make the day unforgettable.

We will be sharing a full photo album on Facebook soon, and can't wait to share the memories!

Our Fall Gear has arrived and orders are ready for pick up!

You can pick up your gear order in the conference area of the Administrative Office Building Monday-Friday between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM. If you have not paid in advance, please bring a check or cash when you pick up. For questions regarding your order, please email Meredith Massa at meredith.massa@southernreins.org.

We cannot wait to see everyone showcasing their Southern Reins spirit!

Friendly Reminder to Use our Main Entrance on Macon Road

All participants, volunteers, and guests should enter Southern Reins through our Macon Road entrance at 12405 Macon Road, Collierville, TN 38017. Please refrain from using the former entrance on Billy Bryant Road. We also ask that everyone visiting the property please drive slowly and adhere to the 15 MPH speed limit to ensure the safety of our participants, horses, visitors, and neighbors.



Thank you for your cooperation and continued support of Southern Reins!

Celebrating our New Southern Reins Volunteers.

We are excited to welcome the newest members of our incredible volunteer team! Over the past few weeks, several individuals have completed training and are ready to make a difference at the farm.

Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do - from supporting lessons and caring for our horses to helping events run smoothly. Your time, compassion, and commitment help create life-changing experiences for our participants. We are so grateful to have you as part of the Southern Reins family.

Interested in joining our volunteer team? We would love to hear from you!

Contact 

meredith.massa@southernreins.org

to learn more!

Honoring Service through Equine Connection.

This fall, we have been honored to welcome members of the Memphis VA Medical Center to participate in our Equine Services for Heroes program—and this week marked an exciting milestone as they saddled up for their first riding sessions of the season.

We are deeply honored to share the arena with these remarkable men and women who have served our nation with courage and strength. For more information about our Equine Services for Heroes program, CLICK HERE.

Halloween Fun at the Farm.

The farm is full of festive fun this month as we celebrate Halloween at Southern Reins! Participants are enjoying pumpkin-themed activities in lessons, bringing extra smiles and a touch of spooky spirit to each ride.

The Holtzman family is also getting in on the fun, showing off their festive Halloween gear and adding to the cheerful atmosphere around the farm. It is a wonderful season of laughter, creativity, and community—Southern Reins style!