Kathleen Curran

Rising Starr Horse Rescue
Wilton, CT

Kathleen Curran and Gunnar

When Kathleen Curran decided to take early retirement after 20+ years at IBM Corporation, she wanted to do something totally different. “No more desk work, being on quota, presentations and spreadsheets,” said Curran.

For the past three years Curran has been volunteering at Rising Starr Horse Rescue three or four days a week. “My love of horses began – later in life," said Curran and it keeps growing.

Curran is now certified as an Equine Sports Massage Therapist and a PATH Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning.

“I’m late to this horse party,” said Curran, “and I’m never leaving! Helping horses feel better, one at a time”.

Jessica Hutt

Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue and Retirement, Inc.
Junction City, KS

Jessica Hutt and Thorne

Jessica Hutt has been volunteering for Rainbow Meadows for one year. She wanted to learn about caring for horses, but she did not expect to also learn about herself.

Hutt had the opportunity to learn how to train a horse by taking a ground training class with a horse that had already done the class several times. “I was ready to help train a more difficult horse,” said Hutt, and picked Thorne (pictured above) who was surrendered in 2023 with some aggressive behavior.

“I have gained confidence, worked through fears, made friends with like-minded people, and found a purpose. Rainbow Meadows is my happy place.”

Erica Suiter, FC3 USN

Windridge Therapeutic Equestrian Center
Diana, TX

Erica Suiter with Pete

There have been many stories of veterans who struggle to cope with everyday life resulting from their military service, and Erica Suiter was no exception. Suiter, a U.S. Navy Veteran, with two children that she homeschools, found Windridge not only to be a place where she could volunteer, but also a place to heal.

“Horses have helped me to trust again. My life feels complete, and my children are thriving with a happy mother and caregiver/homeschool teacher,” said Suiter. "Windridge is a safe place," continued Suiter - "where the staff understands everyone’s individual needs – both human and horses. Pete (pictured above) is the Gypsy Vanner Suiter often rides – who also came to Windridge with trust issues.

One day, Suiter hopes to own a horse or two and hopes that her children will grow to love these magnificent animals.

Hannah Fairbanks

BraveHearts Therapeutic Riding & Educational Center
Harvard, IL

Hannah Fairbanks and Clayton

At 18, Hannah Fairbanks is no stranger to horses and has been riding on and off for years. After taking a break, she started looking for a place to get back into horses and found Bravehearts where she has been volunteering since the fall of 2022.

She helps with new volunteer training and orientation and has realized that she is making a difference in helping new people find the same joy in horses that she feels. In recognition of her accomplishments, Bravehearts awarded Fairbanks the 2024 Junior Volunteer of the Year Award. In learning that she is going to receive some new Ariat boots, Fairbanks said, “Over this past year I have been wearing boots taped together with neon green tape, Thank you for giving me this wonderful opportunity.”