This month, we are honoring Greig Ellis as our volunteer of the month.

Why we love him: Greig combines a strong presence with a big helping of kindness; he is especially helpful and attentive with our more fragile clients. Greig’s self-described job duties: Sidewalker and super pooper scooper.

Path to The Shea Center: “I was watching TV one day, and the show LA Unscripted did a piece on The Shea Center. In that program, I learned the Center was close to home and needed volunteers. I had no experience working with horses but have always had an interest in them.”

Years of service: Greig began volunteering about a year ago. “I am retired…I signed up for once a week for an hour. I completed that session and was hooked. I get to help someone and get a good walk in…it’s a ‘two-fer!’”

Lessons learned: “That my life is blessed in so many ways? I have a greater understanding of equine behaviors and the power of positive reinforcement!”

Favorite Shea Center memories: “Volunteering for the ‘Beyond Blindness’ event. I was a sidewalker with a child from a family who had a blind family member. We only had a short time taking a few laps around the arena. I complimented them on being such a quick learner. This person remembered my name and thanked me as they left. It’s the little things we do for each other that make the biggest differences in each of our lives.”

When not at The Shea Center, he can be found doing this: “I like to garden, woodwork, cook, travel, concerts, ski, fish, hike, and mountain bike.”

He finds his bliss doing this: “Getting together with family and friends for the holidays, sporting events, and theatrical performances. I enjoy family time!”