Congratulations to our May Volunteer of the Month, Elaine Rose! Elaine has been a cherished member of the SAFE community for nearly three and a half years, bringing warmth, dedication, and a generous spirit to everything she does. As a vital part of our Friday AM team, Elaine’s presence is both uplifting and inspiring; you can’t help but smile when she’s around. Her thoughtful nature and unwavering commitment to doing what’s best for both horses and people make her a true gem. Recently, Elaine took her involvement even further by joining our Board of Directors, and we couldn’t be more excited. Her passion and vision are already making a meaningful impact as we continue to work towards a more sustainable future for SAFE and the horses we serve. Learn more about Elaine below.
How and when did you first get involved with horses? Do you have one now you want to tell us about?
Growing up I went on trail rides on family vacations. As an adult my husband and I also ride on trips. One of my favorite rides was in Mexico where not knowing what the heck I was doing I dead galloped down a beach laughing and screaming with delight. I just held on and let my horse do his job. That started the spark that I finally acted on about 15 years ago when I decided I wanted to learn to how to ride rather than just be a passenger. At the time, I had a very challenging job and three family members were facing life threatening health issues. I had three goals: to not be afraid of horses, to understand them and to be able to trail ride. My horse journey began with weekly riding lessons which then evolved into liberty only work. Horses helped me through a really tough time; I can honestly say they saved me. For one hour a week I couldn’t think about any of the difficulties in my life. Instead I had to be fully present with a 1000 pound animal. It was the only respite I had. I currently take riding lessons at Deerfield Farm. And I did accomplish one goal—I’m not afraid of horses. The other two goals, well let’s just say they are a lifetime work in progress. While I don’t own my horse I fantasize about that possibility.
What do you like most about volunteering with SAFE?
The community! We all love horses for our own reasons. Where else do you find people volunteering to clean up poop? My Friday AM team is the best! We have fun, we work hard and we support each other.
Do you have a favorite SAFE horse? If so, why?
Like most of the volunteers I fall in love on a regular basis. But right now my heart belongs to Wren. She has such a kind and generous spirit. From the moment I walked in her stall to bring her out for some grooming before she was worked in the horsemanship program she was with me. And she likes a little snuggle.
What do you do when you are not horsing around with us?
I’ve been a feminist since I was 14 and have spent my life trying to make the world a bit better than I found it. In retirement I still do some work electing women to public office and supporting legislation that makes life easier for folks. I support organizations that are dedicated to women’s rights, fighting climate change and protecting voting rights to name a few. My bookclub is a delight exposing me to books I’d never pick up on my own. I enjoy baking, hosting gatherings with friends, traveling and urban walks.
Do you have family or special people in your life who support your volunteer work that you would want us to mention in your write up?
My husband and best friend. Always willing to go on a trail ride. Without him I’d never make it to my Friday AM shift. Literally, he makes my coffee and my breakfast. And truth be told he does all our cooking and he’s an awesome chef!
