Madyson's Story

"Madyson is always the first one here and the last one out," said her equine therapy coach. "Madyson's little sister was a participant in my 18-week Military Kids Social Emotional Equine Assisted Learning Program. Madyson began volunteering any time I needed extra hands. Not only do I rely on her, but these younger military children rely on and look up to her too.

She takes the time to help each military kid handle and understand horses. She also helps with the emotions we work on and relates to the children so well. She’s always another person they can rely on outside of their own military home.

She juggled volunteering with basketball, high school, working, and now her own horse in which she keeps at my farm. At work, she is always stepping up to help the new kids. Within the first six months of working there, she has received a promotion and a raise.

Having her own horse has just proved her dedication and passion for what horses can do for others. She goes above and beyond on a regular basis. I cannot express how many times this kid has cleaned the stalls, scrubbed buckets, checked water, or even let my dogs out when I have long days at work. She does all of that and more without being asked because she knows it will make my long days easier.

Madyson has done this all this past year with a double knee surgery last August. She is currently finishing her senior year of high school and is set to graduate this May."