Volunteer spotlight: Avery Boarts
Since November 2023 Avery has accumulated more than 46 hours of service because of her flexible home school schedule. This allows her to help with the Pillar School on Tuesday mornings, which we greatly appreciate. She’s also part of the Wednesday Dream Team assisting Instructors, Jen & Kathy Dermody.
What does this tall teen with five years of riding experience think of her time spent at Mane Stream?
“I chose to volunteer at Mane Stream because I wanted to expand my knowledge in the therapeutic equestrian field and connect with others. I love being involved in a program that's rewarding and helping people accomplish their goals during their time at Mane Stream. It is a great place to not only lend a helping hand to those who walk through the door but also a place where you can become a difference maker. I have had the chance to learn, help others, and allow this experience to strengthen myself.”
“One of the most rewarding stories I have had since volunteering was the time I helped a teenage girl gain confidence as a rider. I met her the first day she had gotten back in the saddle after taking a break from riding. She was afraid of how the horse would react. Would she be a good enough rider? And she was afraid of the idea of trotting again. As I continued to work with her and her instructor, she became more confident in herself and improved her riding skills. Afterward, every time she got on a horse, she would smile. She even conquered one of her fears, which was trotting on a horse! I was so proud of her and the time I spent with her made me smile, too.”
“I could also relate to what this rider was going through because I had a very similar experience. At one point in my life, I lost confidence in horseback riding, too. I thought I would never be able to overcome it, however I did. It was nice to work through something I had also experienced with this individual because it made both of us stronger.”
And finally, Avery wants everyone to know, “Mane Stream is a safe place; a place that makes everyone happy! I love this program and can't wait to see what comes next here at Mane Stream!”
Big thanks to Trainer, Jess Wentworth from White Pole Stables for suggesting that Avery should volunteer at Mane Stream!
________________
Consider Joining the Volunteer Team!
https://www.manestreamnj.org/volunteeropportunities
