About Us
Our Mission
“To provide hope and healing through equine programs, empowering individuals, families, and groups to learn, grow, and heal in a safe and supportive space alongside our equine partners.”
Our History
Nicole Shirrel
Founder
Hoofbeats for Hope was founded by Nicole Shirrel in 2024 as a unique and impactful way to bring hope and healing to those in need, starting with offering the Stable Moments mentorship program for foster and adopted children.
The inspiration for Hoofbeats for Hope came years earlier when Nicole was running a successful horse training and instruction program in Orange County. She was approached with a request to host a camp for children from a safe house. While Nicole had organized numerous camps over the years, she didn’t anticipate the unique challenges that would arise. "I honestly had no idea what I was signing up for," Nicole reflected. "I was used to kids arriving excited and full of energy for horse camp. But these kids showed up with their hoods pulled over their faces, arms crossed and completely shut down."
Despite the unexpected challenges, Nicole decided to move forward with the camp activities. What followed was nothing short of transformative—not only for the children, but for Nicole herself. "By the last day of the five-day camp, these same kids were smiling, laughing, engaging with each other, connecting with their horses, and even initiating hugs with me and the camp helpers," Nicole recalled.
That experience stayed with Nicole, inspiring her to create Hoofbeats for Hope. "The change in these kids in just five days was nothing short of miraculous, and the horses played a pivotal role in making it possible," she said. This powerful moment became the foundation of Nicole’s lifelong commitment to helping others through the therapeutic and transformative power of equine interactions.
Through Hoofbeats for Hope, Nicole’s vision continues to come to life, offering children, families, and groups the opportunity to experience healing, growth, and hope—one hoofbeat at a time.
Shanda M. Brennan, MSW, CSW, LCSW, DBT-C
Hoofbeats Director of Clinical Services and Behavioral Health Integration
Shanda Brennan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, psychotherapist, professor, speaker, and clinical supervisor with over a decade of experience in mental and behavioral health. She is the CEO and Founder of Let It Be Therapy & Counseling Services, Director of Behavioral Health at Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center, and Director of Clinical Services and Behavioral Health Integration at Hoofbeats for Hope.
Passionate about mentoring future therapists and integrating animals into the healing process, Shanda combines equine-assisted learning, animal-assisted therapy, and holistic practices to foster resilience and connection. She also co-facilitates Reset Ranch Retreats, women’s wellness retreats that blend nature, animals, and mindfulness.
Outside of her professional work, Shanda enjoys music, cheering for the 49ers and Angels, and time with her husband, three grown sons, and her beloved pets—including “Dilly,” her silly goat.
Through her leadership and care, Shanda advocates for innovative, compassionate mental health services and the healing power of community and the human–animal bond.