From the Board of Directors

Kylie Luark is our newest R4AS board member. Kylie moved to Casper last spring and was looking for a way to support her new community. She loves horses as she grew up in Weld County, Colorado, team roping, barrel racing, and range riding. Kylie enjoys spending time riding her horse, Wylie, and playing with her new dog, Calvin. Kylie is currently attending the University of Wyoming, finishing her BS in Psychology, and would like to complete her educational career with a master's in Speech Pathology. Kylie enjoys working with children and serving her community. 

Thank You to Polly Grimshaw!

Some exciting news is happening at Reach 4A Star; in honor of the Fleming Family Foundation, we will break ground this fall to add a new addition to the horse barn thanks to Polly Grimshaw. Polly was introduced to us through our longtime supporter, Denis Murphy, and has graciously donated funds to create a new loafing shed that will give the herd about 775 square feet of shelter from inclement weather. Once the new addition is completed, we will host a celebration presenting a plaque to Polly, which will be placed on the barn honoring the Fleming Family. R4AS also received an anonymous matching donation which will allow R4AS to continue to provide equine services to our community. Their kindness permits R4AS to fulfill a special purpose while making dreams come true for many in our community. Stay tuned for the latest updates!

Photo:Denise Murphy, Leo & Polly Grimshaw

From Abigail Nunez, OTA Student

Hello! My name is Abigail Nunez, and I am a student from Casper College in the OTA (occupational therapy assistant) program. I enjoy gardening, puzzles and spending time with my silly goats. I am in my final semester completing a Level II fieldwork rotation with Occupational Therapist, Karol Santistevan, and Occupational Therapy Assistant, Genie Hensley. Ropes & Roses Therapy Services at the Reach 4A Star arena has brought me experiences I am so thankful for and brings many giggles provided by the clients. I have met wonderful volunteers, clients and connections from the community while learning from Genie and Karol. This duo is the best example of a professional relationship, and they are so passionate about the OT profession. No wonder Reach 4A Star is blessed with so many students from near and far! My love for horses and OT has grown since I have learned about their role in our mental and physical health. Throughout my experiences here since 2020, I have grown more confident in myself as a student and practitioner. I learned I would love to practice in pediatrics, an area I did not originally plan on going into this program. With youth, you learn something new every day. For me, it is a successful day when I’ve accomplished just that. I would like to thank everyone who is part of Reach 4A Star for being so welcoming to students. The services provided here can be beneficial to anyone and it is a delightful learning environment for all. Leo is a true and loyal gelding and if I’ve learned anything from him, it’s okay to slow down and take your time!

Volunteer Spotlight:

This month’s volunteer spotlight features Jo Ann Williams. Jo Ann has been a valuable addition to the R4AS family for several years, starting with her daughter’s interest in horses and growing into the position of volunteer. Her energy and smile are infectious and can be found in several places around the facility. She is a dedicated feeder and water tank scrubber extraordinaire. It is always a treat to go to the barn after Jo Ann has been there. She is meticulous in her cleaning. When Jo Ann is helping in classes the instructor knows that whatever participant has been assigned to her is in very capable hands. Jo Ann is willing to turn her hand at any task that is required whether it is cleaning the barn, scooping poop, or helping a nervous child gain confidence to ride the horse, Jo Ann is there with a smile and calm assurance that all will be well.

Jo Ann currently spends 8 to 10 hours or more weekly at the arena, including feeding horses, cleaning the barn, and helping with classes. She shares, “Reflecting on all the experiences I have had with Reach 4 A Star Riding Academy over the years, it is near impossible to pick out a top one. I have been blessed in meeting the riders, their families and caregivers, enriched by learning the way of horses, and inspired by the dedication of the instructors.”

Thank you, Jo Ann!