Volunteer Spotlight: Sallie Clark

Sallie is one of our dedicated volunteer regulars - even during the challenging winters. We recently asked her about her background, experience with horses, what she likes about volunteering and more. Here is what she had to say…

“I am currently living in Gypsum with my husband, Bob, and two small dogs. I grew up in Tennessee and Florida before going to Rhodes College in Memphis, TN. I went on to medical school and then completed a surgery residency. I joined a surgery practice in Aurora, CO in 1989. After 30 plus years of practice, I retired in December 2019. We always planned to retire to the mountains and have had a home in Gypsum since 2007. 

“I started riding horses in the early 2000's and have ridden intermittently since that time. We met Shana when she was directing the horse program at the Porter Ranch. When she got involved with MVHR, we began supporting the rescue. One of my plans for retirement included volunteering at MVHR and I started volunteering in February of 2020. I usually cover the Friday am shift plus sometimes an additional shift. I also enjoy watching Silvia [Dr. Stocker, MVHR veterinarian] evaluate and treat the horses.  

“I do enjoy volunteering at the ranch - learning the different horse's personalities and observing their interactions. For the horses to have a safe, loving place to recover and start their next chapter is so important. The beauty of the ranch and the surrounding landscape is inspiring and calming in these COVID days. 

“I am also pleased to have the opportunity to take riding lessons with Emma, as one of my goals is to have a better understanding of horses and to improve my riding skills.”

We are so happy Sallie has chosen to spend part of her retirement volunteering at MVHR and enjoying riding lessons and time in our beautiful setting along the Colorado River. She is an asset to our operation and we are incrediblly grateful for her time and dedication to the horses, donkeys and mules we all love.