Volunteer of the Month ~ Rita QuinnWhy we love her: Rita is a dedicated leader who searches out opportunities to improve her horse handling skills. She is also a Barn Steward, helping to keep the barn, tack rooms, and crossties and tack clean and disinfected.  She also attacks the mountains of laundry that pile up each day.

​​​​Path to The Shea Center: A friend who supports our Veterans riding programs pointed her towards The Shea Center. Rita’s experience working with kids (as an elementary school volunteer and field trip chaperone for her daughters’ classrooms) and with her experience as a horse owner, made her a natural fit as a volunteer. Rita recently purchased a three-year-old palomino Tennessee Walker named Diva (now we understand why she has a soft spot for our Kenny).

Years of service: Rita’s two-year anniversary is this coming August.

Favorite Shea Center memories: “I had the opportunity to help out with the Foster Family Day Event in 2019. It hits close to my heart having once been in their shoes. To see joy on their faces as they got to ride, some for the first time. Many memories sidewalking/leading and getting to know the clients, especially the little ones. Their giggles that come after they tell their horse to ‘T…rot!’”

Lessons learned: I’ve learned about The Shea Center and its history. The importance and benefits of the therapeutic riding programs. I’ve learned how horse movement can improve core strength, stimulate weak muscles and improve mobility. It amazes me to see these kiddos riding standing up and loving every minute. Continuing education classes virtually during the shutdown from COVID, and staying connected with various demonstrations was very interesting and a learning experience. I really liked Heidi’s (equine specialist Heidi Knight) class on horse movement and how it helps benefit the rider. Everyone did a great job. I have gratitude and respect for everyone at The Shea Center for all that they do.