Beginning in June of 2020, we began interviewing one of our volunteers every month and are including their story here.
June 2020
Meet Elizabeth Kneller...
If you have ever met Elizabeth, you will know that talking to her is like talking to someone you have known forever! Whether she is cleaning out the stalls or grooming her favorite horse Harpo, her positive attitude will inspire you to do your best in whatever you are working on at HARTH. Sherry Atherton, President and founder of HARTH Foundation says that Elizabeth is a "down to earth animal lover, with a can-do attitude!". Read more...
July 2020
Meet Marge Neis-Holmes...
Marge has been with HARTH since our opening in 2015, and we are so grateful for her authentic spirit helping us out with everything from keeping the barn clean to making sure all of our horses are well taken care of, as she is HARTH’s lead volunteer! She even lends a hand in our Horsemanship Classes, if our instructor Jereny Johnson ever needs assistance. Sherry Atherton, President and Founder of HARTH, described Marge saying: “She’s just everything… she’s organized and takes ownership... a big asset!” Read more...
September 2020
Meet Jeff Kneller...
Former police officer, now cherished volunteer at HARTH Foundation. Jeff moved to Burnet in September of 2019 after retiring from serving in Joliet, Illinois for 30 years. Jeff is now excited to spend his retired life here in the beautiful hills of Burnet alongside his wonderful wife and fellow volunteer, Elizabeth. Jeff's passion for giving back to the community truly stands out, and propels him to be an extraordinary volunteer here at HARTH. Read more...
October 2020
Meet Debbie Smith...
One beautiful day at HARTH, Debbie Smith was preparing for her side walking duties for an upcoming therapeutic riding lesson. Before the student arrived, the team explained to Debbie how this particular child does not communicate very well unless he is around the horses. With this in mind, Debbie waited patiently for the child to arrive and then helped with a wonderful therapeutic riding lesson at HARTH. Debbie recalled these moments as she told the story of her favorite memory from HARTH: “Just watching them [the child] come alive with the horses and seeing the love they share with them… that rapport and giggle…” Read more...
March 2021
Meet Pam Sanders...
“I was born to be a country girl and was raised in the city,” Pam smiled, prior to serving as a horse handler for a morning therapeutic riding session at HARTH. Pam has been volunteering with HARTH for about a year and half and we are so thankful for her assistance! She is an extraordinary member of our volunteer family and our Featured Volunteer of March. Read more...