I've been volunteering with RideAbility for almost 2 years now and have watched young lives changed and transformed by their inclusive and accepting environment. I have been so impressed, I joined the Board to see what more I could do to help as I have a background in non-profit leadership.
In the barn, volunteering is hard work. The horses all have unique personalities and navigating them is like getting to know your neighbors- it can be tricky! In the arena- that's where so much magic happens! The caring and skilled instructors challenge the kids to grow through the discipline of equine therapeutic horsemanship. Every day I witness kids gaining strength, skills and confidence-achieving more than they ever knew possible! Whether it's winning a blue ribbon at the Special Olympics or gaining the ability to balance and guide their horse in the direction they want them to go, every milestone is celebrated as though it is the most important one! Parents are amazed and their hearts are warmed when they realize how much more their child is capable of. When they see their child achieve better focus, new levels of strength, etc., it redefines what is possible in their child's life! At RideAbility, "Practice makes progress" is the mantra, which sets everyone up for success! I am proud to be able to serve at this non-profit. whether grooming horses, leading horses in lessons, mucking stalls or serving on the board- It is an incredible use of my time, and I am thankful for the opportunity!