Feels Like Home: Pam’s Story
When you find somewhere that feels like home, you stay. That has been the case for Pam, a retired real estate agent and a current client who has been part of the Forward Stride community for over 15 years. Pam is a sweet, caring soul who loves our community as much as we love her, and we are happy to be able to continue to serve her throughout significant changes in her life.
Patricia (Pati) Nelson, former Riding Program Coordinator and instructor, writes, “I met Pam at Forward Stride when she and her husband Roger were volunteering. They were a part of several of my classes but they were especially dedicated to our work with veterans.”
Pam began in the Volunteer Program, helping in sessions and befriending both clients and horses. Pati says, “Pam loved the kids that rode in the program and always let those who were able help get the horse ready for the class, while being mindful of the safety of the client.” Pam’s sister, Jan recalls, “being able to contribute to the mission meant so much to her and she just loved being around the horses.”
Eventually, Pam took to the saddle herself, joining our Riding Program. Pati writes, “She was not only a lovely rider but an eager student and loved her time learning on her horse. Her favorites were Madison and Brady. However, her very favorite equine at Forward Stride was our New Forest pony, Pippin. Pam not only spent time in classes with Pippin, but she also would spend time with her just grooming and doing groundwork. Eventually Pam asked our Equine Coordinator for permission to teach the pony some tricks like bowing. Both Pippin and Pam had so much fun with their time together!”
Their connection is rare and heartwarming.
In 2018, Pam experienced a stroke. Despite her changing needs and abilities, she was still a beloved part of the Forward Stride community. While she couldn’t ride, she took up groundwork classes, reconnecting with her friend Pippin. Pati mentions that after her stroke, Pam expressed “a new appreciation for what Forward Stride does.”
Jan writes, “The last thing she was doing before her stroke was teaching Pippin some tricks. Pippin still remembers all those, even though she can’t have the treats that went with them. They both feel better after they’ve been together!” Pam’s groundwork instructor, Shannon, says, “Pam has been with Forward Stride for over 15 years and shares a remarkable bond with Pippin. After a two-year break, Pippin instantly remembered her, performing tricks Pam had taught years prior. Their connection is rare and heartwarming — built on years of trust, joy and mutual respect. It’s truly something special.”
It is hard to quantify the impact of a community that is able to shift and change to accommodate its members changing needs, but Pam puts it best herself: “When I’m here, all my cares and worries disappear and I feel like I’m home.”
Support the community that gives clients and community members like Pam a place that feels like home.
For the rest of 2025, donations up to $100,000 will be matched by an anonymous challenge grant. This means your donation will go TWICE as far!
If YOU are a volunteer, contributing to the mission like Pam, then your donation will go even further. Between Dec. 1 and 14, a generous anonymous volunteer is matching all gifts made by volunteers up to $10,000!
Give today and help us continue to serve community members like Pam for years to come.