Congratulations to our February Volunteer of the Month, Blake Hart! We feel so lucky that Blake is part of our community, where they have made caring for SAFE horses part of their regular weekend plans for the last year and a half! Blake is super busy between school and helping at another horse barn, but still makes the time be be at SAFE whenever their schedule allows. Blakes official shift is on Sunday PM, but we regularly get to see them helping out on a Saturday shifts, and for events/open houses as well. There is no task they aren’t ready to take on, and Blake is always ready to learn all that they can, so they can better help our horses. We are so thankful for all the love, care, dedication and hard work that Blake shares with us! Thank you, Blake, for all that you give to help ensure all SAFE horses are loved and well taken care of! Learn more about Blake below.
How and when did you first get involved with horses? Do you have one now you want to tell us about?
I always loved animals ever since I was in preschool, whether it was a petting zoo or a pony ride, I always wanted to get hands on with animals. I never started getting more involved with horses until November 2019 when I started riding. As much as I would love to have my own horse to spoil and love, I do not have my own horse, but that doesn’t mean I don’t give lots of love to horses when I can.
What do you like most about volunteering with SAFE?
The community is what I love most about SAFE. The people I meet and work with and the horses I get to watch come out of their comfort zone and grow into such amazing horses. What SAFE does for every horse that comes through the gate is incredible and I’m so happy to be a part of SAFE’s family.
Do you have a favorite SAFE horse? If so, why?
As much as I love all the horses at SAFE, Jupiter has definitely stolen my heart. His sweet and gentle personality and calm eyes has always had my attention, I love him very much and whoever gets to take this lovely boy home will be very lucky.
What do you do when you are not horsing around with us?
On the day(s) I’m not volunteering at the SAFE during the week, I’m most likely at school or doing Drama productions. On other days you’ll find me working at my barn, whether it’s cleaning paddocks or working horses. Any free time I have would be homework or taking care of my own pets, two guinea pigs and two hamsters!
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 mother would have to be my top supporter, she has dealt with my injuries, the smell I bring home, the late evenings at the barn, and taking me to and from SAFE almost every week. I love her dearly and I’m very grateful for her support over the past 4 years.
