Here’s a bit about Ali!
How long have you been volunteering at Forward Stride and why did you start?
I’ve been volunteering at Forward Stride since October 2022. After moving to Oregon, I found I missed having horses in my life. More than that, I wanted to spend my time somewhere that was making a real difference in the community. When I found Forward Stride it felt like the perfect fit. I’ve been coming every week since, and along the way I’ve not only gotten to care for some incredible horses, but I’ve also made lifelong friends. It’s become one of my favorite parts of every week.
Who is your favorite horse?
Tigo, without a doubt! He’s huge, but he’s also the sweetest guy. My favorite thing is how he always tries to “help” when you’re putting his halter on. It’s usually not very helpful, but it is incredibly adorable. I also love walking out to his pasture at dinner time and calling his name. He’ll lift his head up and trot over to the fence to meet me. I’m pretty sure he’s mostly excited that dinner is coming, but I’ll happily pretend he’s excited to see me, too!
Do you have a hobby you love to spend time on?
I love reading, cooking, and just about any excuse to gather around a table with good people. Whether it’s board games, Magic: The Gathering, or sharing a meal I’ve cooked, some of my favorite memories are made laughing, sharing stories, and spending time with friends.
What is one piece of advice you would give a new volunteer?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes. Every volunteer was new once, and every barn has its own routines. The most important thing is to make safe choices for yourself, the people around you, and the horses. If you’re ever unsure about something, just ask! Everyone at Forward Stride wants you to learn, grow, and feel supported, and we’re all working toward the same goal of helping our riders, our community, and our amazing herd.