One of Dave’s favorites, Oscar.

SAFE’s history is full of inspiring horse stories and the horses inspire volunteers in different ways. What is not always apparent is how volunteers inspire other volunteers. Our September Volunteer of the month, Dave Wesche, has found inspiration and community here at SAFE. He writes about what brought him to us and what keeps him coming back in a genuinely touching way:

“I primarily grew up in Portland OR and moved to various places throughout Oregon over the last 20 years, mostly following career opportunities. I moved to WA almost 3 years ago, and have lived in Woodinville for the past year and a half. I’ve always preferred the country, but my career seems to pull towards the city. Woodinville is a great compromise that allows easy access to the mountains as well as my job. I’ve loved animals and the outdoors all my life, and when my latest companion passed away, my lab Roscoe of 14 years, I started looking into ways to help with animals since my apartment isn’t a good place to start with a puppy.

I stumbled over SAFE online and a huge love interest was rekindled that I had long thought burned out. I’ve always loved horses, but realized I was a neophyte on any sort of horsemanship. The prospect always seemed so out of reach for my life path so I didn’t really pursue it. I rode all I could at summer camps as a kid, and trail rides since, but never really learned to care for them or work with them. SAFE seemed it could provide a means to do that for an incredibly good cause. Rescuing animals is a huge passion and I was enthralled to have the chance to learn about horses from the ground up (literally) – willing to start anywhere. What a great cause!

The more I got involved and got to know others with the same passion I realized I had found a community affiliation that fulfilled a long overlooked passion for helping others, as well as animals. Without so much experience with horses, I found that I had other skills to contribute to the same cause while still spending time learning about horses.  The facilities assistant position offered me a way to do this. I love working around the stables and just being in the rural environment. Being around the horses and all the volunteers is so uplifting that it’s now one of the main aspects of my life.

I always make rounds to say hi to all the horses every time I set foot at SAFE stables.  It’s incredible to see the horses come in ragged, then grow into beautiful healthy animals. Getting to know the horses as they come and go can be bitter sweet, but ultimately feels amazing since I know they’re in good hands. In my time there, I miss Phoenix the most. I stopped by to see him along the road two or three times a week as I rambled around the area. I also loved seeing Anakin each week, he was the ultimate “gentleman” of a horse, especially with his incredible story. Of the newbies, I love Stevie. He always seems to have something to say. Another that stands out in particular, Oscar, who I caught impatiently waiting for breakfast when I showed up early one morning – (see the video). He reminded me of my dog with his chew toys.  However, I love to see them all as they get better and move on. And, I love working with so many other enthusiastic people for such a great cause.”

Thank you Dave, for sharing your skills and passion with us. We are grateful for your time and efforts, lucky to have your talents, and honored to be your community.