Congratulations to our January Volunteer of the Month, Danielle!! Not only does Danielle show up every Tuesday night for chores, (often early and sometimes with her sweet daughter, who helped name Nutmeg!) she also plays a crucial role in helping get our horses adopted! Danielle is helping behind the scenes posting Facebook adoption ads and assisting the horse community with the May Day horse ads. We are extremely lucky Danielle found her way to SAFE, her positive attitude is infectious and she is a wonderful addition to our volunteer force. Learn a little more about Danielle below.
How and when did you first get involved with horses? Do you have one now you want to tell us about?
In 5th grade, I joined 4‑H & took care of a beautiful black horse named Star. I fell in love. I read about horses, talked about horses, painted horses — my life was horses. When I turned 15, I began cleaning stalls for lessons. During this time, I rode Captain; a spunky thoroughbred, who challenged me & taught me a ton of lessons. He will always have a special place in my heart.
Unfortunately, when I started college, life got in the way and I didn’t have the time I used to. So glad I found SAFE & I still dream about someday adopting a horse.
What do you like most about volunteering with SAFE?
At night, when it’s dark & quiet, I enjoy walking outside of the barn & watching the horses pop their heads out. It’s always so peaceful at that time. I also love how they get so excited for clean, fresh water swish it all around! The little things in life…
Bijou and Danielle
Do you have a favorite SAFE horse? If so, why?
I have met so many wonderful horses, it’s hard to pick just one! Of the current pack, I feel like Tanis has really come so far & I’ve enjoyed being there as she’s slowly gained confidence come out of her shell. I definitely have to make a special shout-out to Bijou & Rae as well — I love their knickers, sass & playful spirits.
What do you do when you are not horsing around with us?
I spend time with family & friends and volunteer at my daughters school. I also love to cook, be active, travel & try new things. My family recently took a flying trapeze class & I just finished up an adult gymnastics series.
Do you have family or special people in your life who support your volunteer work that you would want us to mention in your write up?
My husband, Kris, & our 7 year old daughter, Olivia, have always been super supportive. They have joined me for my shifts when we’ve been short, driven me in the snow, helped pick up leaves & cut some weeds. They are amazing.
