Kristel Boon, the founder of Unhaltered Hope, embarked on a journey that transformed her personal struggles into a beacon of light for others navigating their own hardships. Following a challenging battle with cancer compounded by the tragic loss of her father, Kristel found herself at a crossroads, grappling with the aftermath. Seeking solace and renewal, she ventured into the realm of Equine Assisted Learning, unaware of the profound impact it would have on her life. "I didn't really have a business idea," Kristel reflects, recounting the pivotal moment when her path converged with equine assisted learning. "It all came to life when I went and took the certification to become an equine assisted learning facilitator."
Fully immersed in a five-day certification program, Kristel experienced a profound awakening. "I left, not thinking that Unhaltered Hope was going to come out of it," she recalls. "I came back and realized, I need to do something with this, because it just... I woke up again." Inspired by her newfound sense of purpose, Kristel embarked on a mission to share the therapeutic benefits of EAL with others.
Upon returning from her certification, Kristel was compelled to share her newfound clarity with the world. Thus, Unhaltered Hope was born — where individuals could find guidance and support in overcoming their obstacles, guided by the gentle wisdom of horses. Collaborating with like-minded individuals and volunteering at non-profit organizations such as Roar, Kristel honed her skills and laid the foundation for her business.
Despite the challenges of venturing into uncharted territory as a business owner, Kristel remained undeterred. “I was always an employee, and that is how I thought my life was going to be. But going through the cancer journey, I realized that was not my passion.” She navigated the complexities of entrepreneurship with resilience. From grappling with the intricacies of marketing to finding her footing in a new role, Kristel approached each obstacle as an opportunity for growth. “I have always loved horses, but I never was able to pursue a whole lot before. With therapy, there is a lot more to horses than putting a saddle on and riding them, and that ignited it again.”
As Unhaltered Hope gained momentum, Kristel expanded her offerings, incorporating innovative programs such as Horsepower Reading—a unique approach to literacy enhancement through equine interaction. "It's a very fascinating concept," Kristel remarks, describing the transformative impact of this supplementary program.
Today, Unhaltered Hope stands as a testament to Kristel's unwavering resilience and unwavering belief in the transformative power of Equine Assisted Learning. From her humble beginnings in the wake of personal adversity to the flourishing business it has become, Kristel's journey is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the profound connections that bind us all. Through her dedication and passion, she continues to illuminate the path toward healing and hope, one hoofprint at a time.
P: 403-921-6382
Instagram: @kristel_unhalteredhope
Facebook: @UnHalteredHopeEAL
