Here’s a bit about Aili!
How long have you been volunteering at Forward Stride and why did you start?
Technically I’ve been volunteering for 3 years but really I grew up at the barn. I started volunteering because I wanted to help make an impact and because Mackenzie needed help in a vaulting class. Now I help in 3 classes a week along with helping train some horses with my mom, Amber.
Who is your favorite horse?
My favorite horse is probably Kevyn. To me she’s not just a great horse she is also my teammate. She is truly one of the sweetest horses out there. Kevyn has taught me a lot about how to be a good vaulter and for those reasons and many more she is my favorite horse!
Do you have a hobby you love to spend time on?
The hobby I love to spend time on is equestrian vaulting. I have been competing since I was six and now I’m also an assistant coach. Vaulting is a major part of my life and I couldn’t imagine life without it!
What is one piece of advice you would give a new volunteer?
A piece of advice I would give to a new volunteer is that it’s always the best option to ask for help when you’re confused. Whether it’s from another volunteer or staff member asking for help is better than making a mistake that could have been easily avoided!