Volunteer Services Manager Michele Gingras has this to say about our Volunteer of the Month. “Tonya’s calm and flexible nature makes her a great fit with any staff member or horse in our herd. She connects well with our clients and generously dedicates her Saturday mornings to The Shea Center.”

Why we love her: Tonya is one of our Saturday morning regulars, bringing consistency to her clients and the horses she leads each week.

Road to The Shea Center: “I was looking for a local place to trail ride when I discovered The Shea Center online. After reading about the mission and attending orientation, I’ve been volunteering most Saturday mornings ever since.”

Years of service: Five and a half years. “I found myself an empty nester in a new home and community, looking for connection and purpose.”

Lessons learned: “I see families bringing their children and loved ones here seeking help, growth, hope, and joy. I’ve witnessed smiles, confidence, and pure delight shine through even the most challenging disabilities. Giving to others, offering your time, care, and heart, creates a beautiful cycle of healing. When we help others, even from a place of emptiness, we often find ourselves being filled in return.”

Favorite Shea Center memories: “Recently, I was out of town and couldn’t volunteer. When I returned, one of the clients excitedly expressed that she had missed me. As a quiet, introverted person, I was surprised and touched that she even noticed my absence.”

When not volunteering at Shea, she can be found doing this: “I love surfing long, rolling waves, camping on the coast, gathering around campfires, and spending time with family and friends.”

She finds her bliss…: “Riding waves and horses, and spending time with those I love.”