Volunteer of the Month
December 2018 -- Alexis Hoelzel
Congratulations Lexi!
You have been chosen as December’s Volunteer of the Month
We’d like to recognize your valued contribution to BITS, and let others be inspired by your generous nature. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer, You can schedule a ONE HOUR RIDING LESSON OR GROUND WORK with Melissa for you and a friend anytime over the next thirty days...see you “Back in the saddle!
And THANK YOU for your service!
Please tell us:
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: New England College work study program.
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: The beginning of September 2018.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I love horses and working with kids! It will also prepare me for my future job!
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? I help with chores, I am either a leader or sidewalker in lessons, and I exercise ride.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Being able to work with kids and the horses. Also, seeing how the riders progress!
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? I don’t have one!
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? I am either studying, playing softball or with friends.
You have been chosen as December’s Volunteer of the Month
We’d like to recognize your valued contribution to BITS, and let others be inspired by your generous nature. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer, You can schedule a ONE HOUR RIDING LESSON OR GROUND WORK with Melissa for you and a friend anytime over the next thirty days...see you “Back in the saddle!
And THANK YOU for your service!
Please tell us:
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: New England College work study program.
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: The beginning of September 2018.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I love horses and working with kids! It will also prepare me for my future job!
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? I help with chores, I am either a leader or sidewalker in lessons, and I exercise ride.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Being able to work with kids and the horses. Also, seeing how the riders progress!
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? I don’t have one!
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? I am either studying, playing softball or with friends.
Volunteer of the Month
November 2018 -- John Buxton
Congratulations John! You're November’s Volunteer of the Month!
We’d like to recognize your valued contribution to BITS, and let others be inspired by your generous nature. The time and effort you have given to the BITS campus is greatly appreciated. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer. Normally, you would be awarded a one hour riding lesson or ground work with Melissa for yourself and a friend anytime over the next thirty days, but happily, you are already part of our RideUP program because of your Veteran status. Let us know who you would like to invite to join you. We are so happy to see you “back in the saddle!
And THANK YOU for your service – both military and civilian!
Please tell us:
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: Facebook.
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: July 2018.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I needed something to do with my retired time.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? Chores and lessons.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Interaction with the staff, volunteers and animals.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Mud.
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? The nice people you’ll meet here and therapeutic benefits.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? Rest, or personal affairs.
We’d like to recognize your valued contribution to BITS, and let others be inspired by your generous nature. The time and effort you have given to the BITS campus is greatly appreciated. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer. Normally, you would be awarded a one hour riding lesson or ground work with Melissa for yourself and a friend anytime over the next thirty days, but happily, you are already part of our RideUP program because of your Veteran status. Let us know who you would like to invite to join you. We are so happy to see you “back in the saddle!
And THANK YOU for your service – both military and civilian!
Please tell us:
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: Facebook.
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: July 2018.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I needed something to do with my retired time.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? Chores and lessons.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Interaction with the staff, volunteers and animals.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Mud.
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? The nice people you’ll meet here and therapeutic benefits.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? Rest, or personal affairs.
Volunteer of the Month
October 2018 -- Megan Johnson
Congratulations Megan!
You have been chosen as October’s
Volunteer of the Month
We’d like to recognize your valued contribution to BITS, and let others be inspired by your generous nature. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer, You can schedule a ONE HOUR RIDING LESSON OR GROUND WORK with Melissa for you and a friend anytime over the next thirty days...see you “Back in the saddle!
And THANK YOU!
Please tell us:
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: My grandmother told me about it and she got me in contact with Melissa.
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: I began volunteering on May 30, 2017. I did barn chores and built the goat fence on my first day.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I love horses and I love helping people, especially children.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? I help with lessons and exercising horses. I volunteered at Cowboy Camp this past summer and I also help with barn chores.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? My favorite part of volunteering at BITS is lunging the horses; I also enjoy grooming them and feeding them.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? My least favorite part of volunteering is probably mucking out stalls, especially in the summer.
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? BITS is a great organization. The people who work here are very kind and they answer all my questions (even if it’s the hundredth time I’ve asked it).
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? When I am not at BITS I take four ballet classes, I play with my little sisters, and I also job shadow at a vet clinic in Hopkinton. On top of that, I like snowboarding, swimming, ice skating and baking.
You have been chosen as October’s
Volunteer of the Month
We’d like to recognize your valued contribution to BITS, and let others be inspired by your generous nature. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer, You can schedule a ONE HOUR RIDING LESSON OR GROUND WORK with Melissa for you and a friend anytime over the next thirty days...see you “Back in the saddle!
And THANK YOU!
Please tell us:
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: My grandmother told me about it and she got me in contact with Melissa.
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: I began volunteering on May 30, 2017. I did barn chores and built the goat fence on my first day.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I love horses and I love helping people, especially children.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? I help with lessons and exercising horses. I volunteered at Cowboy Camp this past summer and I also help with barn chores.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? My favorite part of volunteering at BITS is lunging the horses; I also enjoy grooming them and feeding them.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? My least favorite part of volunteering is probably mucking out stalls, especially in the summer.
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? BITS is a great organization. The people who work here are very kind and they answer all my questions (even if it’s the hundredth time I’ve asked it).
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? When I am not at BITS I take four ballet classes, I play with my little sisters, and I also job shadow at a vet clinic in Hopkinton. On top of that, I like snowboarding, swimming, ice skating and baking.
Volunteer of the Month
September 2018 -- PAULINE MERIDIEN!
Congratulations Pauline!
Volunteer of the Month is a woefully inadequate recognition for a woman who has dedicated 15 YEARS to making BITS what it is today. Without Pauline, BITS would not exist... and she has never received a penny for her efforts. Because of her, countless students and volunteers have been able to experience some of Life's Little (and not so little) Miracles. The world is a better place because of people like her. THANK YOU, PAULINE!
HOW YOU CAME TO CREATE BITS: My daughter got me into this when she said that the two horses she grew up riding on would make great therapy horses. Tanya and BJ started with me and Lorna Young, in an incomplete riding arena with one student back in 2003.
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: (We’re guessing from its inception.) Around the summer of 2003 my husband, Walter England suggested we start offering riding lessons ourselves when I had finished volunteering at Upreach Therapeutic Riding Center. We filed the proper paperwork to become a non-profit corporation, and officially became BITS ETC in September of 2003.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? No one would pay me to do the job....and it needed doing!
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? I muck stalls, groom horses, feed them on weekends, write grants, pay the bills (with the help of generous donations from the public). At times I can be found in front of the computer (my least favorite chore), and other times out in public at hospitals, nursing homes, and schools, libraries, and sometimes birthday parties with Mystique, the miniature horse. Collaborating with other therapeutic centers to form a Veteran’s Collaborative to better serve Veterans and Uniformed Professionals with quality horse time has been the highlight of this past year. I wear the title of Founding Executive Director but could not do what I do without the help of a dedicated Board of Directors, my “Jane of all Trades”, and quality Instructors who work tirelessly for BITS ETC success!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? The great people I have come to know because of my ties with horses. The horses have a way of introducing me to people from all walks of life. Interesting adventures ensue.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Winter am chores before the snow is cleared from the driveway.
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? BITS ETC is a healing place. For generations humankind depended on horses for travel, to wage our wars, and even for our very survival. I want our horses to continue this tradition now when horses are beyond many people’s experience. I hope BITS can continue to be healing for the clients, the horses who help them, the staff who dedicate their time and energy to this place, and the volunteers who come to help others, and many times find they are helping themselves in the process. I hope people will continue to come up the driveway to experience the healing power of the horse.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? I visit my grandchildren in Maine and Vermont, or other relatives in Florida, and warmer climes in winter.
Volunteer of the Month is a woefully inadequate recognition for a woman who has dedicated 15 YEARS to making BITS what it is today. Without Pauline, BITS would not exist... and she has never received a penny for her efforts. Because of her, countless students and volunteers have been able to experience some of Life's Little (and not so little) Miracles. The world is a better place because of people like her. THANK YOU, PAULINE!
HOW YOU CAME TO CREATE BITS: My daughter got me into this when she said that the two horses she grew up riding on would make great therapy horses. Tanya and BJ started with me and Lorna Young, in an incomplete riding arena with one student back in 2003.
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: (We’re guessing from its inception.) Around the summer of 2003 my husband, Walter England suggested we start offering riding lessons ourselves when I had finished volunteering at Upreach Therapeutic Riding Center. We filed the proper paperwork to become a non-profit corporation, and officially became BITS ETC in September of 2003.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? No one would pay me to do the job....and it needed doing!
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? I muck stalls, groom horses, feed them on weekends, write grants, pay the bills (with the help of generous donations from the public). At times I can be found in front of the computer (my least favorite chore), and other times out in public at hospitals, nursing homes, and schools, libraries, and sometimes birthday parties with Mystique, the miniature horse. Collaborating with other therapeutic centers to form a Veteran’s Collaborative to better serve Veterans and Uniformed Professionals with quality horse time has been the highlight of this past year. I wear the title of Founding Executive Director but could not do what I do without the help of a dedicated Board of Directors, my “Jane of all Trades”, and quality Instructors who work tirelessly for BITS ETC success!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? The great people I have come to know because of my ties with horses. The horses have a way of introducing me to people from all walks of life. Interesting adventures ensue.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Winter am chores before the snow is cleared from the driveway.
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? BITS ETC is a healing place. For generations humankind depended on horses for travel, to wage our wars, and even for our very survival. I want our horses to continue this tradition now when horses are beyond many people’s experience. I hope BITS can continue to be healing for the clients, the horses who help them, the staff who dedicate their time and energy to this place, and the volunteers who come to help others, and many times find they are helping themselves in the process. I hope people will continue to come up the driveway to experience the healing power of the horse.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? I visit my grandchildren in Maine and Vermont, or other relatives in Florida, and warmer climes in winter.
Volunteer of the Month
August 2018 -- Riche Colcombe
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS? From Ticia Blanck, who is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist from Henniker. She knew I wanted to volunteer and had nice things to say about BITS.
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING? May 30, 2018… We built the goat pen on my first day.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I have been working in an office / corporate environment for more than 30 years. My goal this year was to find an organization where I could volunteer and feel good about my time. I enjoy being outdoors, I love horses, and I love kids. When Ticia mentioned BITS, I felt it was a good fit for me and I haven’t regretted it since.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? I help with lessons on Monday’s as a lead walker and a side walker. In between lessons, I’ll exercise the horses, and I’ll help with any of the barn chores needed. I’ve helped Melissa with this year’s Cowboy camp. Recently, I have stepped in to help with some bookkeeping needs. I’m willing to do most anything.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? It’s not just one part, but rather the whole experience.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? The heat and humidity. While I haven’t experienced it yet, I’m going to guess that the blustery winter days won’t be much fun either.
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? Stop in for a visit. Consider becoming a volunteer, or sign up for one of our programs. Come see the horses personalities acclimate to the client’s needs.
Working with BITS has been a very rewarding experience for me. The added personal bonus of volunteering is that it has helped me far beyond what I ever expected.
It’s a wonderful organization with great people supporting it. I find the knowledgeable staff to be very encouraging, warmhearted, compassionate and patient with the clients (and the volunteers).
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? I share my life with my husband Marc, and my two dogs (Boomer & Lincoln). I love to hike, bike, ride our ATV’s, go snowmobiling, ski, etc. If it’s an outdoor fun activity, then I’m usually up for it.
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING? May 30, 2018… We built the goat pen on my first day.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I have been working in an office / corporate environment for more than 30 years. My goal this year was to find an organization where I could volunteer and feel good about my time. I enjoy being outdoors, I love horses, and I love kids. When Ticia mentioned BITS, I felt it was a good fit for me and I haven’t regretted it since.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? I help with lessons on Monday’s as a lead walker and a side walker. In between lessons, I’ll exercise the horses, and I’ll help with any of the barn chores needed. I’ve helped Melissa with this year’s Cowboy camp. Recently, I have stepped in to help with some bookkeeping needs. I’m willing to do most anything.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? It’s not just one part, but rather the whole experience.
- I enjoy the people that I spend my time with at BITS.
- I love working with the horses. It has been great therapy for me too…just what I needed after leaving a very stressful career.
- It’s great seeing how the horses quickly change the mood of the clients (and volunteers).
- I love seeing the increased confidence and skill level of the clients.
- I appreciate watching and learning from Melissa; she’s very patient and positive with the clients. And, she’s great with the animals.
- Pauline has been great. From day one, she has been very kindhearted and welcoming.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? The heat and humidity. While I haven’t experienced it yet, I’m going to guess that the blustery winter days won’t be much fun either.
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? Stop in for a visit. Consider becoming a volunteer, or sign up for one of our programs. Come see the horses personalities acclimate to the client’s needs.
Working with BITS has been a very rewarding experience for me. The added personal bonus of volunteering is that it has helped me far beyond what I ever expected.
It’s a wonderful organization with great people supporting it. I find the knowledgeable staff to be very encouraging, warmhearted, compassionate and patient with the clients (and the volunteers).
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? I share my life with my husband Marc, and my two dogs (Boomer & Lincoln). I love to hike, bike, ride our ATV’s, go snowmobiling, ski, etc. If it’s an outdoor fun activity, then I’m usually up for it.
Volunteer of the Month
June 2018 -- Tammy Martel
We’d like to recognize your valued contribution to BITS, and to let others be inspired by your generous nature. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer. You can schedule a ONE HOUR RIDING LESSON OR GROUND WORK with Melissa for you and a friend anytime over the next thirty days...see you “Back in the saddle!”
And THANK YOU!
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: Another volunteer – Jane!
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: March 2018
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I love horses, and I love what Pauline is doing for kids, especially the veterans.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? Assist with lessons, feed the horses, tack and occasionally muck stalls.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Being with the horses, obviously, but being a part of something so wonderful.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Leaving.
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? I would just tell people how beautiful it is to spend with these gorgeous animals and how much we give back to community and the Veterans.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? I am a hospice nurse. I am also in the process of going back to school to further my nursing education.
And THANK YOU!
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: Another volunteer – Jane!
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: March 2018
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I love horses, and I love what Pauline is doing for kids, especially the veterans.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? Assist with lessons, feed the horses, tack and occasionally muck stalls.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Being with the horses, obviously, but being a part of something so wonderful.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Leaving.
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? I would just tell people how beautiful it is to spend with these gorgeous animals and how much we give back to community and the Veterans.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? I am a hospice nurse. I am also in the process of going back to school to further my nursing education.
Volunteer of the Month
May 2018 -- Andrea Collins
We are happy to let you know you have been chosen as Volunteer of the Month for May. The quality of volunteering as well as the longevity is taken into account, and as a most recent volunteer, you wouldn’t necessarily be considered. However, the fact that we have supplies to erect a shed is HUGE, and we all decided we have to let people know about your contribution, which is greatly valued, and let others be inspired by your generous nature. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer. You can schedule a ONE HOUR RIDING LESSON OR GROUND WORK with Melissa for you and a friend anytime over the next thirty days...see you “Back in the saddle!”
And THANK YOU!
Please tell us:
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: Through a friend.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I think animals have a unique ability to heal and help people. I want to be a part of helping to provide opportunities for individuals to build those relationships with animals and grow from them.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? Currently I am not volunteering at BITS, but I hope to return.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? My favorite part of volunteering is seeing a group of people all working together in a positive way to do something selfless and good for others and the community. I enjoy being around and a part of that energy.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? I’m not sure. If I based it only on the day we took down the shed I would say pulling nails out of boards can be pretty tedious!
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? That it’s a wonderful place to find community, positive energy, and great people!.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? Research and study various topics, garden, spend time in the woods with my two dogs.
And THANK YOU!
Please tell us:
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: Through a friend.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I think animals have a unique ability to heal and help people. I want to be a part of helping to provide opportunities for individuals to build those relationships with animals and grow from them.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? Currently I am not volunteering at BITS, but I hope to return.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? My favorite part of volunteering is seeing a group of people all working together in a positive way to do something selfless and good for others and the community. I enjoy being around and a part of that energy.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? I’m not sure. If I based it only on the day we took down the shed I would say pulling nails out of boards can be pretty tedious!
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? That it’s a wonderful place to find community, positive energy, and great people!.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? Research and study various topics, garden, spend time in the woods with my two dogs.
VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH
April 2018 -- Tori Bayer
Congratulations, Tori, on being April's Volunteer of the Month!
We’d like to recognize your valued contribution to BITS, and to let others be inspired by your generous nature. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer.
And THANK YOU!
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: BITS flyer at Family Tree Hopkinton
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: January 2018
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I LOVE horses, and I was coming for my daughter’s lessons anyway.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? Scoop poop, brush all 4-legged creatures, feed.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Loving on the animals and being of service to Melissa and Pauline.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Snow and ice… winter chores.
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? Horses are an amazing therapeutic tool, physically, mentally and spiritually.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? Physical therapist, mom to two high schoolers and one middle schooler and 4x4 legged kiddos.
VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH
March 2018 -- Quianna Willard
Congratulations Q! You have been chosen as March’s Volunteer of the Month
We wish to recognize your valued contribution to BITS, and let others be inspired by your generous nature. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer.
And THANK YOU!
Please tell us:
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: My freshman year I found BITS (I think because of Melissa) and I had to break for school. So, this year I finally got to come back!
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: I began in August this year, and come every Tuesday.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I absolutely love horses and this farm is a the friendliest (and closest) that allows me to satisfy my love for horses .
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? I lead for lessons Tuesday afternoon and help out with chores that need to be done.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? I love helping the kids and making their day a little bit better. Being with the horses is my own stress therapy, too.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? THE COLD + THE WIND!
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? This is a wonderful, welcoming organization that everyone should try out. Mega fun and friendly.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? I‘m working on graduating high school along with various clubs activities.
We wish to recognize your valued contribution to BITS, and let others be inspired by your generous nature. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer.
And THANK YOU!
Please tell us:
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: My freshman year I found BITS (I think because of Melissa) and I had to break for school. So, this year I finally got to come back!
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: I began in August this year, and come every Tuesday.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I absolutely love horses and this farm is a the friendliest (and closest) that allows me to satisfy my love for horses .
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? I lead for lessons Tuesday afternoon and help out with chores that need to be done.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? I love helping the kids and making their day a little bit better. Being with the horses is my own stress therapy, too.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? THE COLD + THE WIND!
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? This is a wonderful, welcoming organization that everyone should try out. Mega fun and friendly.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? I‘m working on graduating high school along with various clubs activities.
VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH
February 2018 -- Linda Patterson
Congratulations, Linda, on being chosen as February’s Volunteer of the Month!
We wish to recognize your valued contribution to BITS, and let others be inspired by your generous nature. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer.
And THANK YOU!
Please tell us:
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: I saw a Facebook request for volunteers.
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: January 2018.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I volunteered at BITS because (1) I was looking for a place I could volunteer that's nearby, and (2) it looked like an opportunity to learn something new as well as work with a team.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? I do morning chores twice a week.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Melissa’s stories and handling the horses.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING?
Least favorite part ... how about I tell you the most uncomfortable part was keeping my hands warm on the windy + cold days and the most messy part was cleaning stalls. None of it is difficult....all of it is rewarding.
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? Working at BITS has offered me a chance to learn about equine care from a very skilled instructor (Melissa), meet other people (owner/instructors/other volunteers/clients), and help out a local organization. I also came to know several animals: Lincoln the carrot eater, a couple of goats with but a singular thought in their brains, and of course, the horses and minis; each with a unique personality and behavior. A very rewarding experience; I hope to return next winter and do it all again.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? I work at Stonefalls Gardens and volunteer 1 day a week in a first grade classroom. I also travel when time and budget allows.
We wish to recognize your valued contribution to BITS, and let others be inspired by your generous nature. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer.
And THANK YOU!
Please tell us:
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: I saw a Facebook request for volunteers.
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: January 2018.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I volunteered at BITS because (1) I was looking for a place I could volunteer that's nearby, and (2) it looked like an opportunity to learn something new as well as work with a team.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? I do morning chores twice a week.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Melissa’s stories and handling the horses.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING?
Least favorite part ... how about I tell you the most uncomfortable part was keeping my hands warm on the windy + cold days and the most messy part was cleaning stalls. None of it is difficult....all of it is rewarding.
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? Working at BITS has offered me a chance to learn about equine care from a very skilled instructor (Melissa), meet other people (owner/instructors/other volunteers/clients), and help out a local organization. I also came to know several animals: Lincoln the carrot eater, a couple of goats with but a singular thought in their brains, and of course, the horses and minis; each with a unique personality and behavior. A very rewarding experience; I hope to return next winter and do it all again.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? I work at Stonefalls Gardens and volunteer 1 day a week in a first grade classroom. I also travel when time and budget allows.
January 2018 Volunteer of the Month:
Robin Beardsley
Congratulations Robin!
You have been chosen as January’s
Volunteer of the Month
We’d like to recognize your valued contribution to BITS, and let others be inspired by your generous nature. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer,. You can schedule a ONE HOUR RIDING LESSON OR GROUND WORK with Melissa for you and a friend anytime over the next thirty days...see you “Back in the saddle!
And THANK YOU!
Please tell us:
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: I was looking for a way to work with horses so I did a Google search for volunteer opportunities with horses. I found BITS. I went to the training and met Pauline and was very impressed with the farm and what they do.
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: June 2017
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I enjoy being around horses and I love seeing kids happy. It's also a great way to be physically active.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? I'm the lead in a lesson on Monday and I also help out with barn chores
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? The horses of course, but I also enjoy watching the kids learn and gain confidence in their riding. It's a really special thing when they realize they just accomplished something they weren't too sure they could do.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Probably the cold. My fingers tend to get numb and this winter hasn't been too nice to us. I can't wait for spring
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? BITS is a wonderful place to volunteer. Everyone who works there is super nice and they make you feel welcomed and also let you know they appreciate your help. I find it very therapeutic coming there after a stressful day of work. I look forward to seeing all of the horses and also the goats
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? I work full time at a dental insurance company taking care of their servers. For my fun, I'm taking horseback riding lessons as often as I can and loving it.
You have been chosen as January’s
Volunteer of the Month
We’d like to recognize your valued contribution to BITS, and let others be inspired by your generous nature. Please tell us a little about why you volunteer,. You can schedule a ONE HOUR RIDING LESSON OR GROUND WORK with Melissa for you and a friend anytime over the next thirty days...see you “Back in the saddle!
And THANK YOU!
Please tell us:
HOW YOU LEARNED ABOUT BITS: I was looking for a way to work with horses so I did a Google search for volunteer opportunities with horses. I found BITS. I went to the training and met Pauline and was very impressed with the farm and what they do.
WHEN YOU BEGAN VOLUNTEERING: June 2017
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER AT BITS? I enjoy being around horses and I love seeing kids happy. It's also a great way to be physically active.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT BITS ETC NOW? I'm the lead in a lesson on Monday and I also help out with barn chores
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? The horses of course, but I also enjoy watching the kids learn and gain confidence in their riding. It's a really special thing when they realize they just accomplished something they weren't too sure they could do.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE PART OF VOLUNTEERING? Probably the cold. My fingers tend to get numb and this winter hasn't been too nice to us. I can't wait for spring
WHAT INFORMATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS ABOUT BITS? BITS is a wonderful place to volunteer. Everyone who works there is super nice and they make you feel welcomed and also let you know they appreciate your help. I find it very therapeutic coming there after a stressful day of work. I look forward to seeing all of the horses and also the goats
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HERE? I work full time at a dental insurance company taking care of their servers. For my fun, I'm taking horseback riding lessons as often as I can and loving it.