Un-social Sorrel Gelding/F, just a 'Pasture pet' or can she be worked with?

We may be getting a horse that some folks dont have room for anymore. One of them is not so bad but theres a young gelding, female and they say she's skittish/doesnt like people, will only be good as a pasture pet. Is there any way to work with her and make her social or even maybe oneday on a hope and a prayer rideable? We have horse runs and a corral. I'm just learning about horses and not real sure what can be done... Help?