Storge — the love and support between parent and child

After more than 20 years as a graphic designer in the fashion industry, Kelly Coleman moved to Heber City ready for a slower pace and a new career in real estate. The move also opened the door to something unexpected: horses.

“I’ve always loved horses from a distance,” Kelly said. That changed after a birthday trail ride at Sundance, when her daughter Tatum announced, “I want my own horse.”

Kelly had no idea where to begin until a chance conversation with Kathy Carr in Smith’s grocery store led her to 4-H. Through the program, Tatum was introduced to horses, riding practices, and a welcoming equestrian community.

“Everyone was super gracious,” Kelly said. “They let Tatum ride their horses. It did absolute wonders for her. Her confidence and joy just blossomed.”

As Tatum became more involved, it became clear she needed a horse of her own. Kathy connected Kelly with Debra West, founder of Liberty Sanctuary, a nonprofit that rescues and rehabilitates horses. While Debra initially explained that most of the rescue horses were not suitable for a young rider, she soon called back with another idea: her own horse, Max.

“He’s a true gentleman,” Debra said. “He takes care of every rider.”

The connection between Max and Tatum was immediate. Debra allowed Tatum to ride and care for him, boarding him at a local farm where Tatum helped with daily chores to offset costs. Every weekday, regardless of weather, Tatum fed horses, cleaned stalls, and spent time with Max.

“She takes such pride in it,” Kelly said. “Max is a real priority for her. They have the most beautiful connection.”

Philia — friendship and trust

For Debra West, Liberty Sanctuary is about more than rescuing horses. It’s about teaching horsemanship, responsibility, and connection.

“When Tatum first came to the property, the bond between her and Max was evident,” Debra said. “Together with Kelly’s support, they were meant to be.”

As Tatum’s dedication became clear, Debra considered selling Max to her through a payment plan. But after seeing videos of Tatum working with Max using liberty training—building trust without ropes or bridles—Debra changed her mind.

“She was doing it instinctively,” Debra explained. “They were what we’d call a bonded pair.”

Instead of selling Max, Debra decided to gift him to Tatum. Local Liberty Sanctuary sponsors stepped in to help support his long-term care. Redmond Equine and Harward Farms donated hay and feed, while Knotty Girlz provided riding gear.

“This wasn’t just an animal to Tatum,” Debra said emotionally. “Max became part of her, and vice versa. I had no intention of separating them.”

Though Max was one of the best horses Debra had ever owned, she knew the right decision was to let him go.

“It’s Tatum’s heart that drives all of this,” she said. “I know she won’t let that horse down.”

Omofrosini — being of one mind

Today, Max, Tatum, Kelly, and Debra all seem united by the same purpose and love.

Kelly says the move to Heber and involvement with horses transformed her daughter’s life. “Tatum struggled with anxiety before we moved,” she shared. “Working with horses, 4-H, and the support from this community has been life-changing.”

Debra agrees that the relationship has benefited Max as much as Tatum. “The way Tatum works with him has made him healthier and happier,” she said.

Tatum lights up when talking about Max and 4-H. “It’s not just riding,” she explained. “You learn body language, how to care for horses, and how to bond with them.”

She’s also found lasting friendships through the program. “It’s great if you want to have fun and learn things you wouldn’t know otherwise,” she said.

Kelly now encourages other families to get involved in 4-H as well. “A year and a half ago, I was such a fish out of water,” she laughed. “Now I get to help someone else the way people helped me.”

One local equestrian summed it up best: “4-H at its heart is about community. It’s talented and passionate people welcoming others in and sharing that space with them.”

That spirit of generosity is what made Tatum and Max’s story possible—from a stranger striking up a conversation in a grocery store, to a nonprofit founder entrusting her beloved horse to a young girl who earned that trust through patience, dedication, and love.

Maybe the Greeks were right to give love many names. But at Liberty Sanctuary, watching Tatum and Max together, all those forms of love feel connected: people opening their lives to one another and creating something beautiful in the process.

Learn more about Liberty Sanctuary:
libertysanctuary.org