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Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has. ~ Margaret Mead
Founded in 2007, we are proud to be established as a non profit organization in the province of British Columbia, Canada. Although our grassroots originated here, Voice For The Horse has networked North America and beyond on a quest to bring horses to the forefront in many peoples lives. Voice For The Horse has been noted as an organization which is both educational and inspirational with our focus on children, fine art projects with horses as our subject for learning.
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| Yvonne and VFTH Mascot Mischief ~ Winter 2009 |
After contemplating to phase herself out of the horse industry in 2007 as far as horse ownership and the responsibilities that go alongside owning a horse, Yvonne Allen, founder and writer of the Voice for The Horse web site made a quick and fast decision to stay involved after learning about the hard side that horses were experiencing in this industry. To follow she spent many years of research and study thereafter on ways to alleviate the hardships that horses experience when they become neglected, abused or otherwise unwanted. What she witnessed during this time was completely heart wrenching and although not easy, she continued to pursue the path of finding ways to make a difference for horses, not only in her own back yard but across Canada, the United States and beyond.
Yvonne is a certified equine practitioner and has studied with many great teachers which include Lola Michelin from the Northwest School of Animal Massage; Geary Whiting from Geary Whiting's School of Equine Massage for Horse and Rider; Dr. Brian McLaren, B.V.Sc., M.App.Sc ~ Photonic Light Therapy. Yvonne has had much success in working with Bach Flower Remedies and Aromatherapy for horses and is a certified Reiki Master. Yvonne resides in Langley, B.C. on a lovely 25 acre farm where she resides with VFTH Mascots Angel and Mischief.
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| Angel and Vernon ~ 2009 |
Vernon Groetchen lends his experience and expertise in sales and marketing and over 30 years expereince in the horticultural field. As VFTH launches into foundation status, his support and knowledge of this industry brings on a new style for the promotion of equestrian concepts and wholy compliments the Vision Mission Mandate of VFTH. Vernon has also been responsible for many trade show set ups over the years; coordinating events being one of his specialties which is a huge asset for VFTH. Vernon's many years experience of also working with the Ministry of Children, makes him a perfect fit for working in the field with horses due to his ability to connect and relate with children and young teens whose lives are in many cases, not stable. His willingness to invite Angel, his first horse ever in his life when most men his age would be looking to upgrade to a new model BMW, shows a dedication second to none for the pleasures one receives when engaging with horses. Vernon prides himself in his interests of family history much of which the horse has been part of. Vernon also co-founded the concept of VFTH along side Yvonne back in 2008.
Vernon is presently learning natural hoof care trimming and has taken several equine massage courses including Equine Touch with Jock Ruddock and Equine Shiatsu Massage with Yvonne Allen. What was witnessed as most impressive with Vernon and his new experience with horses was his willingness to go with the horse their way without ever using force or domination, a given natural sensitivity to the horse which he did not need be taught. Click here to learn more about Vernon's initial experience shared with the first Mascot of VFTH ~ Angel
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| Courtnee Anderson ~ Miss Charity B.C. Canada 2010 |
Courtnee Anderson is from Port Coquitlam, British Columbia and was part of the Miss British Columbia pageant in July of 2010 and was awarded the title of Miss Charity BC 2010-2011. As part of the pageant Courtnee fundraised for Cops for Cancer which sends children and teens living with cancer to Camp Goodtimes in Maple Ridge, BC. "It makes me sad to see anyone sick, and the thought of a child battling cancer devastates me. I made it my goal to raise as much money as I could in the 50 days that I had. I have lost loved ones around me from the disease, and too many people are diagnosed with it each year. My inspiration was four of my family members that have passed from cancer and after a lot of hard work I raised just over $9000.00 for Cops for Cancer".
Courtnee is currently in her 5th year at Simon Fraser University completing a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Health Sciences and completing an extended minor in Criminology. Courtnee loves volunteering and have been since she was in elementary school starting with a library monitor to most recently volunteering for The Variety Show of Hearts Telethon.
In November of 2010 Courtnee was awarded the title of Miss Charity O.W.L 2010-2011 for my fundraising efforts for the Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society. Courtnee is a huge animal lover and they have always held a special place in her heart which is how she found Voice For the Horse. "From the first time I was on a horse at 6 years old, I knew that they would always be special to me. Horses are wonderful creatures, and amazing teachers. I hope that through education and awareness that everyone will come to see this. With that said I hope to educate as many people as I can. The bond you form with a horse is like no other. I hope to inspire the kids and hope that they want to learn more about horses like I did when I was younger. Horses are more than friends, to some they are family, and they are a gift that should be cherished".
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| Richard Waugh |
Richard Waugh ~ Senior Financial Management Professional with a significant record of achievement advising executive and senior management on financial, accounting, legislative and strategic policy issues in both the private and public sectors. Extensive experience in project management, design, delivery and evaluation of transfer payment programs and grant and contributions management. Demonstrated leadership ability collaborating with stakeholders, industry, government and not-for-profit organizations to advance regional economic development priorities.
More to come !! |
