Our Story
Every Gate Is an Invitation.
Open Gate Ranch takes its name from a simple truth about ranch life: every gate is either a barrier or an invitation. We built ours to always be open.
For veterans carrying the physical and emotional weight of their service — the injuries seen and unseen, the sleepless nights, the struggle to reconnect — finding solid ground after sacrifice is rarely easy. For individuals living with physical disabilities, cognitive challenges, or mental health needs, the world can feel like it was built for someone else. Everyone deserves a place that meets them where they are.
At Open Gate Ranch, that place exists. Through the grounding work of ranch sorting and the quiet, powerful bond between people and horses, we create an environment where healing happens naturally — not through a checklist, but through connection, purpose, and the simple dignity of being welcomed. Whoever you are, whatever you carry, this gate is open for you.
From the Founder
One Year In. A Lifetime of Reasons.
I started Open Gate Ranch just one year after learning to ride Ranch Sorting horses. That might sound fast — but when something changes your life, you don't wait around to share it.
In four months of stepping into a sorting pen for the very first time, I went from not knowing what Ranch Sorting was to winning classes in two of the bigger organizations — Ranch Sorting of America (RSOA) and Ranch Sorting National Championships (RSNC) — and qualifying for the World Finals.
I say all that not to brag, but to make a point: Ranch Sorting is a welcoming community. It will meet you where you are and take you further than you expect. Getting involved in this sport will change your life. I know because it changed mine — and I built Open Gate Ranch to help it change yours.
— Chad Loosemore, Founder & President
"Ranch Sorting is a welcoming community. Getting involved in this sport will change your life."
Chad Loosemore — Founder, Open Gate Ranch
Our Mission
Changing lives through the power of horses and community.
Open Gate Ranch is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides a welcoming, hands-on environment where individuals of all backgrounds — veterans, youth, families, and those with mental or physical challenges — can experience growth, healing, and purpose. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
What We Stand For
Our Values
Healing Through Connection
We believe the bond between a person and a horse is one of the most powerful therapeutic relationships in nature. Every program we run is built around that connection.
Radical Inclusion
Everyone belongs here - veterans, youth, families, and individuals with disabilities. We believe cost should never stand between someone and healing, so Open Gate Ranch covers all program fees. If you need us, the gate is open.
Excellence in Care
Our horses are partners, teachers, and healers — and they deserve to be treated as such. Many are retired working horses or animals that needed a second chance. We give them a safe home, a meaningful purpose, and the care they've earned.
Community Rooted in Place
We're a Montgomery, Texas ranch, and we're proud of it. Our community is local, our volunteers are neighbors, and our impact is felt right here in the greater Montgomery County region.
The People Behind the Ranch
Board of Directors
President
Chad Loosemore
Vice President
Jeff Ford
Treasurer
Jaden Emerson
Secretary
Carrie Lyssy
Ready to Be Part of the Story?
Whether you want to join a program, volunteer your time, or support our mission financially — there's a place for you at Open Gate Ranch.