Why we love her: Sandra checks all the boxes: She’s a leader, a sidewalker, a barn steward, and is always ready to help out wherever she’s needed.

Path to The Shea Center: “Shea representatives visited my Occupational Therapy Assistant program to describe the work that they do; then I attended two Shea BBQs. The work Shea does made a huge and lasting impression on me and I knew I would volunteer as soon as my scheduled allowed. Ten years later here I am, thrilled to be a part of the meaningful and life-changing work of the Shea Team.”

Years of service: Sandra describes herself as a “newbie”: April 10, 2021 was her first volunteer shift.

Favorite Shea memories: Sandra cites building relationships with the horses as a leader, as well as our clients. “A very young and dear client said we were “being ballerinas” together. The earnestness of her comment and her courage during the session warmed my heart in a magical way. Also, watching the transformation of the military group after their lesson with the horses. I saw huge smiles on their faces and relaxed shoulders…it touches me deeply as I appreciate their service to this country and am glad there is a way to give back to them.”

When not volunteering, she can be found…: “I have taken up a few new hobbies: Archery, ukulele and bass guitar. It’s tough and fun being a newbie.”

She finds her bliss doing this: “Walks in nature and noticing little details in the flowers, plants, trees and sky. And breathing deeply.”

Future plans:  “I’d like to take my mediation career out of mothballs.”