Congratulations to our volunteer of the month, Gill Skeet. Volunteer Services Manager Michele Gringras has this to say, “You can count on Gill to do what needs to be done, and she gets it done with a smile. Gill shows up to continuing education classes and shows a willingness to learn.”
Why we love her: Gill is a leader who can lead a variety of our horses. She was one of our ‘mainstay’ leaders during summer camp 2023.
Path to The Shea Center: “Internet search – I was looking for a volunteer role with dogs or horses, so Shea seemed the perfect fit.”
Years of Service: Gill started volunteering in October 2022
Lessons learned: “Far too much to recount here…I learn something new every session. Apart from the fantastic practical instruction in grooming, tacking, and leading a horse (I never knew there could be so many different types of tack!), I really enjoy listening to the instructors working with our clients and the different methods they employ to engage them. I’m also amazed by the range of conditions that riding and interaction with horses can benefit clients and the never-ending patience and positivity of the therapists.”
Favorite Shea Center memories: “Leading in summer camp. Despite the occasional heat and tired legs, I loved working with the same horses and clients for a week and seeing them progress. For some, never having been on a horse and a little apprehensive on Monday, to not wanting to say goodbye on Friday was a joyful thing to witness. It was also good to spend some downtime with my fellow volunteers.”
When not at The Shea Center, she can be found doing this: “Hiking with my dog, and sometimes my husband; playing tennis-badly but enthusiastically, and generally exploring all that this beautiful area has to offer. Having relatively recently relocated from the UK, I still feel like we are on an extended vacation and enjoy hosting family and friends. I have also completed a dog training certification course and am hoping to gain some experience volunteering at a shelter.”
She finds her bliss doing this: “Spending time in nature-I love hiking and skiing in the mountains or being at the ocean. Live music is a passion, but I equally enjoy a few hours with my feet up, a glass of wine, and a good book…”
Check out Gill’s Drive to Ride story.
