Thank you to everyone who has already signed up for the Summer Session! If you haven't done so, PLEASE sign up TODAY, using the link below! Signing up this way replaces the notebook in the volunteer office.
Here is the class schedule! We did add a 10:45 class on Monday and a 4:30 class on Wednesday! If you are able to add either of those classes into your schedule, please let me know as soon as you can!
Mondays: 9:30, 10:45 4:30, 5:45, 7:00
Tuesdays: 4:30, 5:45, 7:00
Wednesdays: 4:30
Thursdays: 9:30,10:45 4:30, 5:45, 7:00
Saturdays: 9:30, 10:45, 12:00
**There will be no classes on Saturday, July 3 and Monday, July 5, due to the 4th of July holiday.**
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As many of you know, the mask requirements in Wisconsin have been changed for individuals who have received the COVID-19 vaccine. At this time, we have decided to make NO CHANGES to our mask policy. We do not have the ability to monitor proof of the vaccine for every individual who enters the facility. Because of this, we will keep our policy the same, and request that all volunteers/guests wear their mask while indoors. When we have classes outside, masks can be taken off, with the exception of during mounting and dismounting. Thank you for your patience with and understanding of this decision. |
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In preparation for Summer Session, we are offering 1 Open Barn/Arena time for those who want to work with or groom horses during the break. Because this is only a 3-week break for us, there was only 1 date that we could offer this. The horses will first have a little time off, then Therasage Equine Massage School will be here for a week, and then we have the Golf Outing! Lots happening in June! However, if you'd like to come in and get some practice or just groom the horses on this day, please sign up using the link below.
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Recreational Ride, June 22, 10-11:30
We have our first recreational ride of 2021 on the schedule!!! For those who are new, a recreational ride is like a "field trip" for either schools or group homes. They can bring up to 18 students, and will rotate between stations that include riding, grooming, feeding, or horse leading. We need volunteer support in all three stations. If you are able to help, please sign up using the form below, and I will contact you with more details. Thank you!
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Our facility is BIG, and we need help weed whipping!! If you are interested, or know someone who is, please let us know! We have 3 weed whippers at SMILES, so a group of friends could get together and get this job done in no time! We'd love to have classes outside, but definitely need help with the weed control so that the horses can focus on their job. Please contact me if you can help. Thank you! |
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Easy way to untack horses after class! |
Watch this super quick video about untacking horses, which will not only be more comfortable for the horse, but also for YOU! |
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SMILES' YouTube Channel
Click the link below to subscribe to our YouTube channel!
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June Spotlight is.....Leslie Warnecke!
How did you become involved with SMILES, and how long have you been volunteering?
I had been aware of SMILES for many years as it was not far from where I grew up. It was always something that I wanted to be involved in, but was not able due to my schedule. Mark Hanson, fellow volunteer, is the person that gave me the final nudge that I needed and my schedule now allowed me to make the commitment. Best decision ever!
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Delavan.
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Who is your favorite horse at SMILES and why?
This can change weekly at times!😊
I have had the opportunity to work with Sport and find that he has a great personality! He likes to give little nudges, not sure if it’s for attention or affection, but it’s cute nonetheless. He is very good with the riders that I have lead.
If you were gifted a million dollars, what would you do with it?
I would definitely donate to organizations I am passionate about, especially SMILES. I would like to do more traveling, both domestically and abroad.
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What is something you like to do in June?
If the weather is nice, not humid, I like to spend time outdoors with my dog, Gabby, and husband. You can always see me out walking Gabby in the morning or early evening. I would like to do more hiking in the area this year.
What do you enjoy about volunteering at SMILES?
No matter what has happened during my day, I know that once I get to SMILES everything will be better! I like that no two days are the same. It’s great getting a new student at the beginning of each session and seeing all the changes that happen in the nine weeks. Can be anything from increased communication to greater independence in riding. I also enjoy having had the same student for many sessions and he brightens my day by just being himself!
Is there anything else you'd like your fellow volunteers to know?
I have enjoyed getting to know all the volunteers that I have met, be it in class or helping at the many events put on throughout the year.
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The "Mane" Event Golf Outing, June 23!
The golf outing is only a few short weeks away!! There's a few ways that you can support this event:
- Donate wine for the "Wine Pull!" Wine must be at least a $15 value.
- Donate a gift card (of any value!) for the "Gift Card Tree."
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Volunteer at the event! To volunteer, click here!
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June Birthdays at SMILES! |
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Sharon Allswede, June 8
Marcy Mielke, June 9
Rox Prah, June 10
Karen Campisano, June 24
Josh Moldenhauer, June 25
Ron Peters, June 26
Kim Soeth, June 30
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SMILES transcends traditional therapeutic methods by offering individuals with special needs the joy of participating in an equine-assisted program which provides social, emotional, physical and personal rewards. |
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