A Volunteer’s Take – And Invitation

Hello fellow equine enthusiasts. My name is Corey Hudson and I have been volunteering at Mid America Horse Rescue (MAHR) for 1.5 years. Before that, I volunteered at another equine rescue for 4 years. Thanks to MAHR, I met my boy Chap, the ex-racehorse that I adopted in 2011.

I got involved in volunteering because I learned about the uncertain fate that horses now face. These majestic creatures – whose ancestors we credit for helping to build this country – are being discarded as if they are no longer have any use. Their fate often ends in neglect, abuse or even slaughter.

Now more than ever, horses desperately need the assistance and support of horse owners and equine enthusiasts.

What makes MAHR different than other rescue facilities is a unique idea that has just recently taken shape. MAHR's concept involves rehabilitating and retraining ex-racehorses (primarily Thoroughbreds) for equine assisted therapy programs.

The concept not only benefits the horse by making it a useful tool to mankind, it also enhances the lives of those who need this type of rehabilitation (both horses and humans).

As a seasoned volunteer, I must say that volunteering is not easy, but it sure is fun. It's physically demanding and a person needs to be in pretty good shape to work at the facility. Regardless, the work is so satisfying knowing you are caring for the horses by giving them a second chance.

If you would like to learn more, or are thinking about volunteering or supporting Mid America Horse Rescue, we encourage you to join us on May 4, 2012, at the St. Louis Derby Party. The fundraiser will support the care and nourishment of these noble creatures, and allow us to share more with you about how ex-racehorses can enhance the lives of those with disabilities or life challenges. Just be sure to purchase your tickets by April 6 via http://derbypartyhorserescue.eventbrite.com.

It will be a great time for a great cause and I guarantee you'll be inspired. On behalf of the volunteer crew at Mid America Horse Rescue, I hope to see you there!

-Corey Hudson