My Nonprofit Reviews

I wish I could choose more than five stars, because with all that I've learned in the fairly short time that I've been volunteering with Dream Catcher Stables and working with Sanna Roling, this organization, Sanna, the clients, the volunteers and the horses have all embedded themselves in my heart - and into my future for as far as I can see.

The passion with which Sanna Roling embraces her mission, "to provide a place in perpetuity where people with disabilities can be equal, capable and successful, growing to their maximum potential through interaction with horses in a positive environment," is undeniable. It means the world to her, and thus to all who come into contact with her. I've seen the changes for myself... little Mickey, for instance, rides with us almost weekly, and though some days may be easier than others for him, the physical and emotional benefits are evident after each and every ride. His amazing mom says she - and Mickey's doctors, who recommend his riding - see it as well, and this is just one story.

We are not talking about an arena framed in diamonds and gold, or an office to rival that of the stars', or even a big, fancy gate with a fancy name at the entrance to the property. We are talking, here, about a woman who is more dedicated than is possible to express in mere words, with a level of knowledge, ability, encouragement and compassion unrivaled in any other I've known. She inspires the same in others, and together this organization provides what it says it will provide.

Just the other day, reflecting on conversations and developments with clients and volunteers alike, Sanna said, "I've decided that what we are here is an incubator..." She was reflecting that her "athletes" as DCI clients are affectionately called, and her volunteers - some of whom are in high school and some of whom are just looking for fulfillment by helping others - leave with so much more than they came to find. Some volunteers change their occupational goals so they can do more to help others. Some change their majors in college. Many find leadership and compassion that helps them discover the same in themselves, and essentially all find support and acceptance. And athletes - they find love and support and help and growth and improvement...and love.

DCI is not just a place that provides horses to help others heal; DCI is an environment into which all who visit step expecting to help a bit and perhaps get a little mud on their boots. As they close the gates behind them, though, at the end of each day, they find their hearts a little bigger and their passion a little deeper for helping to make this little bitty world go 'round.

I wholeheartedly encourage you: come to heal, come to help, or share a little of your blessings with this gold-hearted organization. I mean... incubator. :-)