Congratulations to our Volunteer of the Month, Patrick! 🎉If you’re at Ironstone on a Saturday morning, there’s a good chance you’ll run into Patrick! He’s here week after week, helping feed the horses, assisting with lessons, and jumping in wherever an extra hand is needed. Recently, he also helped – alongside our volunteer John Ellis – install new saddle racks, bridle racks, and shelving for our tack trailer. Thanks to their help, and the detailed work of our staff, each horse has a spot for their own equipment. What a difference a little organization can make!
We love Patrick for the time he takes to get to know our horses and the people who come through the farm. He has a way of making people feel welcome! He’s patient with clients, friendly with staff, and always ready to pitch in on whatever the farm needs that day. We’re so glad to have him as part of the Ironstone community and grateful for all the time he gives to our farm. Congratulations, Patrick!
GET TO KNOW PATRICK
Years of service / Total volunteer hours
4 years, 3 months / 324.50 hours
How did you discover Ironstone Farm?
I first learned about Ironstone when my kids came here for lessons. I rediscovered it 20+ years later when I was looking for volunteer opportunities during Covid while working from home. Learning about the different programs and the mission, my curiosity was piqued, so I signed up to become a Sidewalker. Soon I was trained to lead the horses during lessons then joined the feeding team to learn more about them, especially how to tell them apart.
What is your fondest memory you have from volunteering?
My favorite memory comes from working with the therapy students. We had a new little boy who was challenged with multiple conditions, including a seizure disorder. He was prone to physical outbursts when stressed. His mother brought him to CU in hopes a riding program would be positive stimulation. At first it was rough as he didn’t want to have a helmet on his head. Finally, after three weeks of groundwork, the therapist and his mom were able to get a helmet on, and we mounted him. At first he lashed about, taking all of us to keep him safe, including the true star, Romeo, who remained calm and steady throughout. We quickly began to walk, which immediately began to calm our rider as he locked into Romeo’s rhythm. By the end of the lesson, we were actually able to go into a trot, which produced big belly laughs from our rider and smiles from everyone and maybe a couple of tears, especially from mom. This experience for me encapsulated the mission and potential of Ironstone and is one I will never forget.
What does Ironstone Farm mean to you?
For me, Challenged Unlimited/Ironstone is a community of people who love animals and have a spirit of helping others. Where all sorts of folks can come and experience “healing through horsepower,” as the motto says. It is a special place.
Thank you, Patrick, for exemplifying our mission and values in all you do!