My Nonprofit Reviews

Five years ago we discovered Blue Shadows because we acquired a horse and happened to find boarding for him at Monteverde Ranch in Lakeview Terrace, and this ranch just happened to be a post for Blue Shadows. One night we were visiting our horse and saw all these kids running around in blue shirts. My daughter Katherine was 11 years old at the time. She met some of the kids (all really friendly, helpful and welcoming), watched one of their practices, and it took her about two seconds to beg me to let her join. She is now 16 years old, a Second Lieutenant in one of the intermediate troops, and also a third year member of the Junior Advanced Team. This organization has changed our lives, especially the life of my daughter, for the better in so many ways. It has taught her respect, discipline, and patience, and has enhanced her equitation, horsemanship, leadership and mentoring skills. As a mother, I have gained many friends who are also parents of children in the organization, and have been amazed to witness the accomplishments of my daughter and her teammates. Our horse has even benefitted, as the demands of drill have made him a better, stronger and more sound horse. It is so wonderful that kids who love horses can join an organization like Blue Shadows which allows them to ride a horse every week, whether or not they own one, and participate on a team that helps them grow and improve as riders, all for a cost that is very affordable. How can we get the word out to folks in the nearby communities whose kids are looking for this chance? In closing I'd like to share my daughter Katherine's feelings about Blue Shadows in her own words: "What I have learned has shaped my life as a teenager, and will continue to guide me into adulthood, and for this I am grateful beyond words."