From the Streets to the Stables

Empowering Youth Through Horsemanship & Community

For over 30 years, we’ve provided a safe haven for at-risk youth in Compton, using horses, education, and mentorship to build confidence, character, and brighter futures.
Who We Are

Where Horses Build Leaders

The Compton Jr Equestrians is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation founded to continue the 30-year plus mission of its predecessor organization to provide self-development services to disadvantaged urban youth in the hub city of Compton and surrounding areas, in response to the lack of such programs generally, and equestrian programs specifically.

The Program is available to youth who are at risk for dropping out of school, joining gangs, incarceration, and poverty. CJE programs leverage horse programming to deliver self development services that include activities that promote general wellness, academic achievement, character building, discipline, self-esteem, and leadership.

The CJE Story

From the Streets to the Saddle

Meet the passionate leaders and mentors who keep CJE galloping forward.

A Legacy of Hope, Horses, and Opportunity

For over 30 years, equestrian programs in Compton have offered local youth a safe haven, a purpose, and a path forward. Compton Jr. Equestrians was founded to continue the legacy of the Compton Jr. Posse, created in 1988 to give at-risk youth an alternative to gangs, violence, and life on the streets.

 

Inspired by the vision behind the Compton Cowboys, founders Randall Hook and Jamie Vance — both products of these transformative programs — established CJE to keep this life-changing mission alive.

“Streets raised us, horses saved us.”

Today, CJE combines horsemanship, academic support, wellness, and mentorship to help young people build discipline, confidence, and leadership skills. Our ranch serves as a safe space where youth can learn, grow, and envision a brighter future — proving that hope, opportunity, and a horse can change a life.
The CJE Story

Building Strong Futures Through Horses & Community

We empower urban youth through equestrian training, mentorship, and personal development — helping them build confidence, discipline, leadership, and pathways to academic and career success.

Vision

A world where every disadvantaged young person has access to life-changing equestrian programs and support, helping them thrive in school, in life, and in their communities.

Our Three Pillars

3 Core Areas of Growth

Discover the transformative programs that help our youth grow into confident, capable, and compassionate leaders.

Equine Programmes

We develop confident, capable riders while teaching responsible horsemanship. Students learn riding skills, horse care, grooming, safety, and barn management. Many of our horses are rescues, giving youth hands-on experience in compassion, discipline, teamwork, and animal wellbeing.

Ranch & Facility Programmes

Youth learn full ranch operations, including stall care, feeding, equipment handling, and arena maintenance. Our ranch also features organic gardening and farming, helping students build environmental awareness, responsibility, and respect for nature.

Student Development & Wellness

We support youth through holistic life-skills training, case-management, academic support, and wellness activities. Through equestrian work, fitness, counselling, and nutrition education, students build confidence, resilience, emotional intelligence, and healthy living habits.
Our Team

The Team Behind the Mission

Meet the passionate leaders and mentors who keep CJE galloping forward.

Randall Hook

CEO; Compton Cowboys Board Chair; CJE

Louis Hook

COO; Compton Cowboy/CJE

Antonio Christi

CJE Business Affairs & Corporate Development Director

Kennan Abercrombia

Coordinator, Ranch Operations

Daniele Beavers

Coordinator, Riding Programs

Mark Carlos

Coordinator, Student Programs

Ellen McCord

Coordinator, Program Administration

Ellary Allis

Multimedia Content Creator

We're Hiring!

Become Part of the CJE Family

Work in a supportive, fun, and growth-focused environment where every team member matters.

You're leaving the CJE website to go to the Compton Cowboys homepage, the architect of our community service mission.

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