The Anne Springs Close Greenway℠ has deep roots in equestrian sports, as the Greenway Stables predates the official opening of the Greenway℠ in 1995. Volunteer Donna Dziedzic embodies the spirit of horsemanship with a dedication to the Greenway’s mission that is unmatched. So far in 2024, Donna has logged over 1,350 volunteer hours—more than double any other volunteer—bringing her lifetime total to over 3,500 hours of service to the Greenway. Awarded the Outstanding Volunteer award in 2023, Donna has been volunteering at the Greenway for about three years and comes daily for a minimum of five hours, often working up to nine hours.
“Whenever I see Donna, she has a smile on her face and has an enthusiasm for volunteering that is contagious,” said Danielle Holmes, Volunteer & Internship Program Manager. “She mentors other volunteers, helps wherever needed and loves our mission wholeheartedly.”
Growing up on a dairy farm in upstate New York, Donna has always loved horses, valuing their strength and connection to people. “Horses are bold and strong, a great match for people,” she says. “We need them as much as they need us, and when you can work with them, you both end up enjoying each other.”
Following this passion, Donna predominantly volunteers on the equestrian side of the Farm & Stables Entrance, helping clean stalls and care for horses, but she also works in the Crandall Bowles Children’s Farm with the alpacas, guardian dogs and cattle.
“I am not sure how we functioned before having Donna as a volunteer at the horse barn – she is truly such a blessing,” said Paige Warren, Equestrian Program Manager. “Donna has made so many improvements to the facility and processes at the horse barn.”
Donna’s background in military service and long career in nursing gives her “boots on the ground” experience and a proactive approach to pitch in wherever necessary to implement small improvements. “You just start to notice things,” she said. “Things I knew I could help with.”
“I am blessed to know and work alongside such a talented volunteer,” said Kelly Siegert, Equine Caretaker at the Greenway. “Donna has been essential to the daily tasks in the equine department as well as the Children’s Farm.”
“Donna is always here bright and early, willing to help with a joyful smile and amazing attitude,” said Reagan Schwartz, another Equine Caretaker at the Greenway. “She always knows where to help and can assist with any problem that might come along. Thank you, Donna, for making me laugh and always making my job easier.”
Donna also speaks highly of the volunteers she works with at the Farm & Stables. “The camaraderie between the volunteers is so strong. We back each other up and we couldn’t do what we do out here without each other. I sure would love to see more come who really want to be a part of it.”
The Farm & Stables is always looking for new volunteers, especially over the winter. “We want more people to come out and ask questions,” said Donna of volunteering at the Greenway. “Find something you love out here at the stables or Children’s Farm side and ask to be a part of it. We can find someone to teach you whatever you want to learn, and even if you don’t know what you want to do, we can help you find it. Every one of us will let you into our world here – and it is a wonderful world.”
To learn more about volunteering at the Greenway, visit the Volunteer page and submit an application in the Volunteer Hub portal. Some opportunities, such as equestrian and farm work, require an orientation and/or training.
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