06/24/2026
After much reflection and with a very heavy heart, I have made the difficult decision to close Winter HAYven.
What began in 2008 as a simple desire to help has been one of the greatest passions and privileges of my life. For over 18 years, Winter HAYven has been more than a nonprofit—it has been a labor of love, built on compassion, kindness, and the belief that even the smallest act of generosity can change a life.
Together, we have weathered challenges, celebrated victories, and touched countless lives. Every donation, every volunteer, every share, every encouraging word, and every person who believed in our mission became part of something much bigger than any one individual. You became the heart of Winter HAYven.
Unfortunately, donations have declined to the point where I can no longer sustain the work in the way it deserves. This decision has not come easily. In truth, it has broken my heart.
To everyone who stood beside me on this journey, thank you. Thank you for believing in a dream that started with a single idea and grew into a community of caring people. Thank you for helping me make a difference when it mattered most.
While Winter HAYven may be closing its doors, the compassion, friendships, and impact created over the past two decades will never disappear. Those memories and the lives touched along the way will remain forever.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for allowing me to serve, to give, and to be part of something so meaningful.
With gratitude and love,
Lori Dougherty
Founder, Winter HAYven
The horses have always been and will always be, the heart and reason for Winter HAYven,
