Serenity-Magazine-Article

Straight TO the Horse’s Mouth

Article by Amy Dunkleman published in Serenity Magazine

‘Tis the season for giving….and big hearts. Two such individuals in our community exemplify that spirit which we often connect with this particular time of year. They are Juliana Lehman and Kami Guildner. Make no mistake; they are very clear in their purpose for giving and supporting those in need in our mountains and throughout the state of Colorado. The mission of this organization is crisp and straightforward: “…..to keep horses and their owners together during these difficult times by providing food grants and providing interim help during this crisis…….and preserving the Colorado heritage of horse ownership and the life values inherent in this privilege.” They and their highly professional and dedicated Board of Directors have come up with a simple yet brilliant idea to help this situation: set up a Food Bank for horses, very much like a human food bank, to provide direct services to keep hay in their bellies, and essential veterinary care while their owners get back on their feet financially. Thus, in May of this year, the Colorado Horsecare Foodbank was born. The need for keeping our equine companions fed is obvious. The foresight of these founders to extend that purpose to allow the owners to remain with their horses is where the genius of this idea lies. It provides some stability and comfort in their lives, where so often perhaps there is chaos and fear due to financial crisis. Further, it keeps the horses with the same owner, likely reducing stress on the animal since it will not have to be shipped off to a different owner or situation. The constancy for both seems to be a win-win.

For an organization just launched a mere 7 months ago, its idea and success has grown almost like wildfire. Already they have helped over 15 cases this summer and fall, and have had inquiries for help and advice from near and far. Statewide requests have come in for assistance, and calls have been coming in from around the country from other groups who want to start an organization modeled after this one, the word undoubtedly spreading at a fast pace. The actions of the organization and its recipients seem to have a “Pay it Forward” type of energy as well. One such recipient from down the hill expressed such gratitude that they are now donors, in time, and goods, to help the next person in need. Perhaps they have much to be grateful for, since their daughter was able to keep her beloved horse, Comanche, by her side during their difficult financial times this past summer. Not knowing how they might be able to keep their horse with them, the food bank stepped in and provided the much needed hay and basic care for the 4 or 5 months until the family could stabilize their finances take back costs on their own. This is not a “free for all”, mind you; those wanting help must apply in writing and through an interview in person with its founders. Applicants must show that they truly have a need, are making an effort to economize the costs, and show that they are putting forth effort to get back on their feet as soon as possible. As Juliana says, “We must make room for others who need a temporary boost, as well.” Another case ending happily involved a mountain resident with 2 horses. Dropping from a 6 figure income to barely getting by, this gal made a plea for help at the Food Bank, and got the temporary assistance she needed. As a result, she has been able to keep her he equine family intact. As Juliana says, the woman has much gratitude for Colorado Horsecare Foodbank being there for her in time of need.

It would be redundant to ask Juliana Lehman why she does what she does for this organization. The reason shows with nearly every recipient and donor story she tells. Her emotions appear to describe wordlessly what is in her heart: a deep love for horses and their well being, and the preservation of the quality of life that horse ownership holds. There is no need to ask, you just know in conversation and observation of her actions. She, her founders and other volunteers have had tremendous success so far, and have big plans for the future. There are educational programs in the works, a spring/summer fundraising event at one of Evergreen’s large ranches, and other lofty visions of growth for the Foodbank. There seems to be little doubt that it will happen, as their mission comes to fruition month after month. Colorado Horsecare Foodbank represents all that is good in humankind for service to our fellow beings. What a great gift we have in our community for this holiday season, and through the year to come. Donations of all kinds are welcome in services, goods and the fine old-fashioned dollar. Their website is www.horsefoodbank.org and has all the details. Reach out and let them know that they are appreciated, say hello and wish them a happy holiday!

Amy Dunkelman

Mountain Homes &Horses