Established in 2018 by Donna & Jim Columbus, Hope 4 Horses Rescue & Sanctuary offers hope and healing to horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules (and a few cats and dogs, too). In rural Effingham, this stable and grounds are operated by an all-volunteer team, and you are welcome to experience it, too! Every day, volunteers show up as they can and assist with feeding, watering, cleaning, grooming, and walking the animals. Training is provided, and you can do the parts that appeal to you. Here were a few of my fears or reservations about volunteering here, and this is what I found:
What if I'm not comfortable with large animals? That's okay! They gave me chores, like watering, feeding, cleaning empty stalls, and spreading sawdust shavings. Then, they invited me to walk a very gentle horse while others prepared her stall for the evening. And I did!
What if I don't know how to do what they ask? Everybody there was helpful and happy to pitch in, show, and teach me how. It's a welcoming and friendly environment, and the people and animals are so glad to see you!
What if I don't know anybody or don't have someone to bring with me? I went alone and felt welcomed from the start, and so grateful I tried it! But, they welcome groups, teams, and families, too! There's a lot of work to do, and many hands make light work.
What about bad weather? Dress for the weather, but a lot of the work is inside a large shed/stable, so you're mostly sheltered from the elements.
What do I wear? Clothes/boots you don't mind getting dirty, and work gloves.
So, why not give it a try? It's a great way to invest a few hours in a fun and friendly place for a really great cause!
Thanks for sharing your time and talents!
