“I’d like to start by introducing myself. My name is Nick Haley. I’m a first generation Horsemen that got his start in Firestone Colorado. In June 2019 my whole life changed. Poor choices led to a courtroom where I sat at only 14 years old questioning everything, my friends, my future, my path and God’s plan for me. I left that courtroom feeling beaten, with questions that couldn’t be answered and 24 hours of community service… I heard from members of the community that GOYR was looking for volunteers. Not knowing the major impact me saying yes to building a goat “shed” would have on my life I said yes. On this short 24 hour journey of community service, those questions I never asked out loud were answered, I found peace in the horses, pride in the work and people that supported me. As I continued to be a part of GOYR my passion for horses continued to snowball, taking lessons, attending the empowering youth leadership program, graduating from that in 2019. In 2020 started work for a breeder in Fort Lupton to learn more about the industry I was obsessed with. Later that year I got my first horse. Many of you know “Bear” who once was a lesson horse at GOYR. This is where things really took off for me. In 2021 I started competing in the versatility ranch horse events. In 2022 I moved to Cheyenne Wyoming to compete at the collegiate level. I have spent the last 6 months working for a reined cowhorse trainer in Perrin Texas chasing my dream. If I never stepped out of my comfort zone and went to GOYR I would’ve never found myself, my passion, or the dream I have the privilege to chase. If you’re going to take anything from this, take this. Have faith during your weak moments, spend more time outside your comfort zone, and never underestimate the power of the first step. My first step on this life changing journey was Graceful oaks youth ranch.”