High Hopes Winter 2026 Magazine

Dear High Hopes Family,

Winter at High Hopes doesn’t slow things down. Lessons continue, horses need care every single day, and our community shows up with the same commitment and heart, no matter the season. This magazine captures the people and moments that make High Hopes what it is: participants working toward meaningful goals, volunteers sharing their time and talents so generously, staff leading with care and professionalism, and supporters who believe deeply in this mission.

Within these pages you’ll meet some truly special members of our community—our annual award recipients, dedicated volunteers, and valued partners who help make our programs possible. You’ll also see how High Hopes continues to grow and evolve, expanding access and deepening impact through initiatives like Shared Strides.

At its core, High Hopes is built on relationships between people and horses, between volunteers and participants, and among a community that believes everyone deserves access to meaningful, high-quality equine-assisted services.

As we move through winter and look ahead to the year to come, please know how thankful I am for your trust, support, and belief in this work. Whether you’re in the barn each week, supporting an event, or cheering us on from afar, you are an essential part of High Hopes.

Thank you for being part of this community. We’re so glad you’re here.

TALLY HO,

Journey of Commitment & Connection

Some of the best teachers don’t use words. They teach by example through presence, patience, and an ability to meet others exactly where they are. Horses, by nature, live fully in the present moment. They don’t judge, rush, or hold expectations. Instead, they respond honestly and calmly, offering lessons in trust, regulation, and connection simply by being who they are.

At High Hopes, these qualities make horses not just partners in our work, but powerful educators in our community.

Few embody this role more beautifully than Churro, our 2025 Horse of the Year. From the moment he steps into the barn or arena, Churro brings the same steady energy every day—one of acceptance, kindness, and patience. He has an incredible ability to help participants settle into themselves, especially those who arrive with a bit more energy or uncertainty. With Churro, lessons unfold gently and intentionally, guided by his calm presence and quiet understanding.

Churro is an Appaloosa gelding who joined the High Hopes herd after beginning his therapeutic career at Southern Reins Therapeutic Riding in Tennessee.

While he excelled in his work there, the heat proved challenging, and the thoughtful team at Southern Reins reached out to see if High Hopes might be a better fit. What followed felt meant to be. Churro arrived and quickly became part of our herd—a true “unicorn” whose temperament and heart aligned perfectly with our mission. His impact has been felt by participants, volunteers, and staff alike, and his recognition as Horse of the Year came as no surprise to those who know him. Even those who loved him before he came to High Hopes have continued to celebrate his journey. Upon seeing recent photos, Churro’s former owner shared, “I’m so happy he is working out so well at High Hopes. He looks beautiful and healthy in every photo online and in the literature you send. High Hopes is working out well for him, too. My heart is filled with gratitude.”

Churro reminds us that teaching doesn’t always come from instruction. Through his consistency, gentleness, and quiet strength, he shows us what it means to slow down, connect, and move forward with care. We are grateful every day for the lessons he offers and proud to celebrate him as one of our most exceptional teachers.

HIGH HOPES AWARDS

The Sally Aubrey Award was established in 1998 by Stever Aubrey in honor of his wife and long-term High Hopes volunteer, Sally. For this award, Stever created the bronze sculpture of a mare and foal displayed at our entrance, and a casting is presented to the recipient. The award is given to an individual who exemplifies the spirit of High Hopes through commitment, dedication and compassion.

This year’s recipient, Todd Machnik, embodies the spirit of this award in every sense. Through years of service, particularly as the Chair of the Building and Grounds Committee, Todd’s steady leadership and deep care for our campus and herd have left a lasting impact. His quiet, behind-the-scenes stewardship ensures that High Hopes remains a safe, welcoming place for all. Most profoundly, Todd has shown great reverence and compassion when our horses reach the end of their lives, arriving whenever needed with respect and care. Todd’s dedication reflects the very heart of High Hopes.

Established in 2006, the Lytt Gould Award recognizes extraordinary leadership, vision, and commitment to the long-term sustainability of High Hopes.

The 2025 recipients are the Kitchings Family. Sarah Kitchings Keenan and Chris Keenan, Chet and Suzanne Kitchings, and Ken and Christine Kitchings—whose generosity and family-wide dedication have made a meaningful difference at High Hopes. Their support has helped strengthen programs like the Parkinson’s Program, ensuring its continuation beyond the pilot phase and securing its place in our ongoing offerings. Their commitment spans generations, including Sarah and Chris’ son, Ryan, who participates at High Hopes with his equine partner, Arthur. We are deeply grateful to the Kitchings Family for placing High Hopes at the heart of their philanthropic priorities and for inspiring others through their leadership.

The Nancy Cash Program Volunteer of the Year Award was proudly presented to Amanda Moor Kellogg this year. This award honors a volunteer who, like Nancy Cash, is dedicated, dependable, and always willing to go the extra mile— someone whose positive spirit and unwavering commitment help riders achieve their personal best.

Amanda brings a lifetime of horse experience to High Hopes, guiding our horses with exceptional care and intention. Her calm presence and thoughtful leadership ensure that both participants and horses feel supported, respected, and set up for success. Often volunteering multiple days each week, Amanda shows up consistently with the same level of care, patience, and enthusiasm.

Beyond High Hopes, Amanda is also a personal life coach, and her approach to teaching and coaching is felt deeply throughout our community. She meets people exactly where they are, offering encouragement, understanding, and kindness in every interaction. As Amanda beautifully puts it, “A little good goes a long way—it’s a ripple effect.” That philosophy shines through in her service at High Hopes, creating an environment where learning, growth, and joy can flourish.

We are grateful for Amanda’s generosity of time, heart, and spirit. She embodies the very values this award was created to honor.

High Hopes is proud to present this year’s Event Volunteer Award to Jim Lewis and Kim Kaiser, two longtime volunteers whose commitment, skill, and reliability have been essential to the success of our community events for many years.

Jim and Kim have been integral to High Hopes’ event preparations, particularly for our largest annual fundraiser. Year after year, they arrive ready to work — tractor and tools in tow — and immediately begin transforming the arena into a welcoming, safe, and beautifully organized event space. From laying and aligning the all-important arena carpeting to carefully navigating the always-complex table grid required to safely accommodate hundreds of guests, they approach each task with patience, precision, and attention to detail.

Often working behind the scenes during the busiest and hottest days of June, Jim and Kim quietly take on both the physical and logistical heavy lifting. They anticipate needs before they arise, track down essential supplies, and step in wherever help is needed to ensure nothing is overlooked. Their steady presence allows events to unfold smoothly, even when last-minute challenges arise.

Just as important as their technical expertise is the spirit they bring to the team, Jim and Kim approach every challenge with warmth, humor, and a can-do attitude that lifts those around them. Their willingness to ask, “What’s next?” and “How else can we help?” exemplifies true teamwork and embodies the collaborative heart of High Hopes. Jim and Kim represent the very best of the High Hopes volunteer spirit—dependable, generous, and deeply committed to our mission. We are sincerely grateful for their time, talent, and dedication, and for the countless ways they help bring our events to life and strengthen our community.

The Special Volunteer Award goes to Sue Wilde this year. She has been at High Hopes for more than 14 years, and her service has made a lasting impact on our programs, horses, and community.

Sue has generously shared her time and talents in many roles, including horse handler, sidewalker, and barn volunteer. In recent years she has become a steady presence in the tack room, where she meticulously cares for our saddles and bridles. Her attention to detail and commitment to safety ensure that our equipment remains clean, well-conditioned, and ready to support every participant.

This year, Sue has expanded her role by stepping into horse handling for our unmounted programs, including Lumibility and the Parkinson’s Program. Her calm demeanor and thoughtful approach make her a wonderful partner for both horses and participants.

Beyond programs, Sue brings something equally valuable to High Hopes: kindness. She treats everyone she encounters— participants, volunteers, and staff alike—with genuine respect and warmth, making people feel welcomed and at ease through her easy conversation.

Sue’s dedication reflects the heart of what volunteerism at High Hopes is all about. We are deeply grateful for her many years of service and the care, reliability, and compassion she brings to our community each day.

Our High Hopes Office Volunteer Award winner is Naomi Fiora, whose quiet dedication and welcoming presence make a meaningful difference every day. Naomi came to High Hopes with more than 30 years of experience as a special education teacher, bringing a deep understanding of people, patience, and the power of being present. While she may often be found quietly reading between moments, she is always the first to look up with a warm smile, ready to greet anyone who walks by the front desk.

Naomi has a remarkable way of making people feel seen and valued. She speaks to everyone with care and respect, offering assistance, encouragement, and calm reassurance whenever it’s needed. Her thoughtful demeanor helps set the tone for the entire day, reinforcing the welcoming and inclusive environment that is so central to High Hopes.

We are deeply grateful to Naomi for the many ways she supports our organization, both behind the scenes and at the front desk. Her kindness, reliability, and gentle presence ensures that every person who arrives feels at home the moment they walk through the door.

The Barn Volunteer Award was awarded to Judy Wood, a volunteer whose tireless dedication and behindthe-scenes work helps keep our horses happy, healthy, and well cared for.

Judy is a familiar sight around campus, feeding our herd multiple days each week no matter the weather. Rain or shine, bitter cold or sweltering heat, she shows up with consistency and reliability. Long after feeding is finished, Judy is often found lending an extra hand—cleaning paddocks, tidying sheds, or tackling whatever task still needs to be done.

What truly sets Judy apart is not only her work ethic, but the spirit she brings with her. Armed with a quick wit and a signature sense of humor, she has a way of turning even the coldest mornings or toughest chores into moments of laughter. Her presence lifts those around her, reminding us that caring for horses is not just hard work—it’s shared work, best done together.

The Paul Burkarth Rider of the Year Award was established in memory of Paul Burkarth in 1985. This award is presented annually to the rider who has shown the most progress during the past year.

This year’s recipient, David Reese, has been riding at High Hopes for three years and has made remarkable strides in both skill and confidence. A dedicated participant in our therapeutic riding program, David partners with Arthur and approaches each lesson with determination, positivity, and heart. His strong work ethic and willingness to try new challenges reflect the true spirit of this award.

David’s enthusiasm is contagious. With his signature smile and cheerful responses of “Yeah!” or “Uh-huh,” he brings joy to everyone around him. His genuine connections, upbeat attitude, and steady progress make him a pleasure to have in the barn and a wonderful representative of the High Hopes community.

Congratulations David, on a year of meaningful growth and achievement. We are so proud of all you’ve accomplished.

The Davison Youth Service Award honors a young volunteer who truly stands out for going above and beyond in service to our participants, horses, and staff. This year High Hopes is proud to recognize Coral Anthony as the recipient of this meaningful award.

From the moment Coral began volunteering in the barn, she became a welcomed presence. Exceptionally kind and thoughtful, Coral consistently puts others first and is always ready to help wherever needed. Whether assisting with daily barn tasks or stepping up to help staff feed hay to the herd during the busy summer months, she approaches every responsibility with enthusiasm, reliability, and care.

Coral’s strong work ethic is matched by her joyful spirit. Her contagious laughter and positive attitude brighten the barn and lift those around her, making her a pleasure to work alongside.

Coral exemplifies the qualities this award was created to honor. Her dedication, compassion, and willingness to serve reflect the very best of the High Hopes youth volunteer community. We are deeply grateful for the time, energy, and heart she shares with us, and we know she will continue to excel in whatever path she chooses.

The Patrick Moreno Sportsmanship Award established in 1993 by Sis Gould in memory of Patrick Moreno, honors a participant who exemplifies sportsmanship, encouragement, and resilience in the face of challenges.

Thomas Stoddemeier, a cherished member of the High Hopes community since 2005, embodies Patrick’s spirit in every way. Thomas brings joy, humor, and fun to the barn. He currently partners with Lulu, sharing a sweet bond filled with snuffles, patience, and plenty of laughs—even on days when Lulu’s listening skills are a little selective. Whether he is faithfully grooming Lulu, or playing the “cheeseburger game” with his longtime volunteer and friend, Joanne, Thomas reminds us what true sportsmanship looks like. We’re proud to honor him with this award.

CELEBRATING HOPE. SUMMER SOIRÉE 2025

Lessons Carried Forward

This past year, the High Hopes community said goodbye to three extraordinary teachers, partners, and friends: Nifty, Warrior, and Chip. Though each arrived at High Hopes with a different story and purpose, together they embodied important values of our mission: trust, patience, sensitivity, and connection. Their presence shaped our programs, our people, and the quiet moments in between in ways that words can only begin to capture.

Nifty, formally known as Prince Nifty Pine, lived a truly remarkable life. A decorated reining champion alongside his owner, Carol Gondek, Nifty joined the High Hopes herd in 2002 and went on to spend more than two decades serving our community. Named High Hopes Horse of the Year in 2010, he carried countless riders, offering not only steady movement, but confidence, courage, and a sense of possibility. Known for his clear communication and strong opinions, Nifty reminded us that true partnership with horses requires listening just as much as leading. He taught us humility, respect, and the importance of meeting each moment with honesty and heart.

In later years Chip, Nifty’s fellow retiree, became his pasturemate, trusted companion, and constant presence. Their bond was unmistakable. When Nifty lost vision in one eye, Chip naturally stepped into the role of guide and protector—becoming his “seeingeye buddy.” Wherever Nifty went, Chip was close behind, the two moving together in quiet rhythm, a powerful reminder of loyalty, companionship, and care.

Chip was a saint in his own right and a favorite among our youngest participants. He would lower his head patiently so small hands could reach, carrying his riders with quiet pride and gentleness. Even after retiring from our mounted program, Chip continued teaching in our horsemanship classes. From Chip, we learned the value of steadiness, kindness, and showing up fully—lessons that live on in every moment of calm he offered.

Warrior was a New Zealand Warmblood originally imported to the United States to compete in the World Equestrian Games. Elegant, dignified, and deeply intuitive, Warrior showed us that sensitivity is not a weakness; it is a gift. He carried participants through many meaningful firsts. First independent rides, first canters, first moments of true connection. He listened, waited, and responded attentatively, reinforcing lessongs that instructors deliver from the ground. When Warrior was diagnosed with nasal lymphoma, we honored the promise we make to every horse in our care, ensuring his comfort, surrounding him with love, and supporting him peacefully through his final moments.

As we reflect on the lives of Nifty, Chip, and Warrior, we recognize that they gave us far more than rides or horsemanship lessons. They taught us how to be better partners, better listeners, and better humans. Their legacy lives on in every connection made at High Hopes and in every moment of trust built between horse and participant.

With deep gratitude and love,

- The High Hopes Community

Making Hope Accessible: The High Hopes Fund

At High Hopes, we believe everyone deserves access to the horse-human connection. That’s why nearly 80% of the cost of services for our participants is subsidized, so no family is turned away because of financial barriers. This is only possible thanks to the generosity of our community and the High Hopes Fund, our annual fund that provides flexible operating support.

The High Hopes Fund is essential to our mission. It allows us to respond to the greatest needs throughout the year— whether that’s caring for our herd, elevating program excellence, or expanding outreach through innovative programming that brings the benefits of equine-assisted services to more people. Every gift to the fund helps us sustain what we do best while building an even more accessible, innovative, and resilient future. You can make an immediate impact by giving to the High Hopes Fund today at www.highhopestr.org/give

As we look ahead, we’re also thinking about tomorrow. Planned giving is one of the most meaningful ways to ensure High Hopes continues to thrive for generations to come. By including High Hopes in your estate plans, you create a lasting legacy that supports participants, programs, and horses well into the future.

We know these decisions take time and care, which is why we offer resources to help you explore your options. Visit www.highhopestr.org/give/planned-giving to learn more about how you can make a gift that reflects your values and secures the future of High Hopes.

Together, we’re not just making an impact today—we’re building a future full of hope.

Nicole Makos Advancement Director

Celebrating Community, Commitment & Compassion

High Hopes is proud to spotlight The RiverLane, a beloved women’s boutique in Essex and Mystic, CT, where coastal spirit and small-town charm create a space designed for connection. Known for its curated favorites, warm hospitality, and community-first ethos, The RiverLane brings that same spirit to its philanthropy.

For the past three years, The RiverLane has stood beside High Hopes as a gala sponsor, increasing their support each year as their belief in our mission has deepened. Their leadership-level partnership ensures that children and adults with diverse abilities can access life-changing equine-assisted services, regardless of financial circumstances.

Owner Robin Zubretsky shares the heart behind their support, “At the heart of The RiverLane is our commitment to giving back to the community that has always supported us. That’s why we’re proud to stand behind High Hopes. Their dedication to enriching lives through the powerful horse-human connection is something deeply meaningful to us, and we’re honored to champion the incredible work they do.”

The gala is one of High Hopes’ most important nights of the year, a chance to showcase our mission to the broader community, celebrate participant achievements, and raise the essential funds that sustain our programs.

It is businesses like The RiverLane who make this possible. Their sponsorship helps underwrite event costs, allowing High Hopes to create an inspiring, mission-centered evening where every dollar raised directly benefits our participants, our herd, and our programs.

What makes this partnership especially meaningful is how personally The RiverLane shows up. The RiverLane team attends the gala each year, not just as sponsors, but as true supporters who bring warmth, joy, and genuine community spirit to the night.

The RiverLane’s growing investment strengthens High Hopes’ ability to subsidize program costs, care for our horses, and provide transformative services ranging from unmounted wellness programs to adaptive riding and Parkinson’s support.

Their support is more than sponsorship—it is heart, leadership, and community in action. High Hopes is deeply grateful for The RiverLane’s steadfast partnership and their belief in the power of the horse-human bond.

SPRING 2024 WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SPONSORSHIPS?

Trudy Burgess Event Manager

tburgess@highhopestr.org

Meet the Horses

Another Chapter

A few years ago retired high school teacher Marc Soutra “accidentally” found a flyer at the Waterford Library calling for people to come volunteer at High Hopes. Marc was going through a tough time in his life; a huge hole had been created as he transitioned into retirement. He missed doing something that made a difference in people’s lives. When he saw the flyer, he was intrigued but lacked the confidence to take the next step. His family stood by him and encouraged him to reach out and use this as an opportunity to make a difference. With his family’s support and Marc’s lingering mindset that “people should do something greater than themselves,” Marc joined High Hopes as a volunteer.

Marc primarily sidewalks with several participants of different ages. He loves making a difference, being around animals, and teaching. High Hopes brings these all together for him. “It’s the perfect blend. I don’t understand why more people don’t do this.”

Marc is a true believer in the relationship between humans and animals. He had done quite a bit of horseback riding and was drawn to the way human-toanimal relationships, especially with horses, made him feel. High Hopes brings together a mix of horses, people, and a peaceful environment, where the staff, horses, and volunteers are there to make a difference in the world.

“Just being here is like an oasis to me. It makes me feel good and joyful. I feel at peace. When I leave, I feel better than when I arrived. High Hopes addresses the mind and body.”

While Marc was reminiscing, he was asked about his experiences while volunteering at High Hopes.

With a smile, he talked about meeting the Scotella family. Marc currently sidewalks with Matthew Scotella and enjoys coming in every Friday to see the family and work with Matthew in the arena.

These experiences have impacted Marc on a deeper personal level. He feels renewed and brought back to life by the kind of work High Hopes does. Marc expressed how he doesn’t see disabilities but rather differences. “Everyone has their own differences. There is nothing wrong with that. It makes you who you are.” This mindset has greatly improved his empathy over the past few years.

There are milestones in every organization that inspire reflective pause and celebration. March 1974 marks the founding of the Lower Connecticut Valley Educational Riding Association (LCVERA) which today we know and love as High Hopes Therapeutic Riding.

Vixen, now retired, was the first horse Marc had the pleasure of working with. “She was an amazing horse.” While this wasn’t the first horse he had been around in his life, it was the first horse he had an interaction with at High Hopes, and it was truly amazing for him. His time volunteering and working with horses has taught him more about horses and how to care for them.

High Hopes’ story is one of inspiration, transition, and growth. From its humble nomadic beginnings with a visionary leader, Mary “Sis” Gould, a handful of dedicated volunteers and horses, and a belief that the lives of individuals with disabilities could be improved through interactions with horses, High Hopes has grown into an industry-leading center.

Marc wishes to see High Hopes continue broadening its reach in the community and providing more of the wonderful benefits High Hopes offers. “It needs to be experienced and shared with more people. It’s like a refuge for so many people. Everyone benefits from High Hopes.”

Since volunteering at High Hopes, his confidence has greatly improved, and he is helping people once again. In retirement, Marc loves to read and go out on his boat in the summer with friends and family. He also published a memoir about his time teaching. “High Hopes is another chapter; my story isn’t over.”