Who we are
The Redemption Hill Ranch program is run and supervised by a group of persons passionate about helping others find healing through relationship with horses and God.
Sarah Buffman, CTRS, CTRI
Sarah is the founder, CEO, and Therapeutic Riding Instructor of Redemption Hill Ranch. Driven by her own personal journey with horses and faith, she now strives to share similar experiences and benefits with other.
As a Recreation Therapist, Sarah utilizes her expertise from over a decade of service in mental health to help individuals travel their own paths to recovery and joy. Her dual certifications from the National Council of Therapeutic Recreation Credentialing and PATH International further affirm her commitment to providing effective treatment modalities in adapted fashions, marrying functional with fun. In the Redemption Hill Ranch program, Sarah has harnessed the transformative power of horsemanship and the healing potential of the human-animal bond.
Jill serves Redemption Hill Ranch as Board Secretary and Equine Advisor.
“Hi, I’m Jill DeShone, a mom, realtor and life long horse lover! I have spent most of my life around horses either working at farms or as a farm owner. When I was 9 years old my great aunt gave me money towards a summer lease on a horse. It was the best Christmas/birthday present I’ve ever received and I was immediately hooked! As a very shy child, these animals brought the very best out of me.
When working at a farm, while in college, I was able to witness an equine assisted therapy program. I saw, first hand how it affected the riders’ lives for the better. From that point forward I had always dreamed of starting a program, at my own farm. When Sarah approached me at a horse show and told me her plans, I felt like fate had brought us together.
I’m so excited to be a part of this program. These animals are magical. They have the ability to bring the best out of people and to heal unseen wounds.”
Jill DeShone
Diane McFarland
Diane serves as the Redemption Hill Ranch Treasurer and Animal Assisted Therapy Advisor. She comes to us with a love for animals and a history of working with children using therapy animals. She trained and certified with her Miniature Schnauzer, Casey as a therapy dog. They worked with children in behavioral units during their twelve years of therapy work. Casey excelled when working with kids, often able to seek out the individual who needed his special love and attention. Together they brought smiles to their clients, lifted spirits and helped restore a beaten down self-esteem.
Now being part of our team, Diane says it’s another awesome experience watching as God uses animals to help children as they care for and build relationships with the wonderful horses at Redemption Hill Ranch.
Cathy is a foundation on which the Redemption Hill Ranch program is built upon. She has faithfully served God and her neighbors for nearly 50 years as a nurse of many different capacities. Beyond physical medicine, she helps others find healing with love and a listening ear.
Cathy serves as both a board member and a session volunteer. She welcomes participants and families into the barn, making them feel at home and answering questions while sessions are underway. We are more than grateful for her gracious service… it would simply not be possible without her!
Catherine Merling, RN
Hello, my name is Jennifer Osborn. I am a proud mother of two wonderful children who inspire me every day. I am the owner and a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) at Elevate Speech and Language Therapy in Snover, MI, and I also serve as a full-time SLP with Tuscola ISD’s Early On program.
As an avid animal lover, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of the programs at Redemption Hill Ranch. My son’s journey with the ranch was incredibly moving—through his bond with the horses, he gained resilience, self-esteem, and confidence during challenging times. This experience not only supported his growth but demonstrated the profound healing potential of the human-animal connection.
I am truly honored to join the incredible team at Redemption Hill Ranch and to contribute to their mission of fostering these powerful bonds. Together, we can show others how unseen wounds can heal through the unique connection between humans and animals. I am excited to see what God has planned for Redemption Hill Ranch and its future.