The pandemic and associated restrictions did not stop volunteers from contributing time and talent to Riding To The Top in 2020. Despite being closed for nearly four months and needing to modify lessons once the farm was able to re-open, volunteers still collectively donated over 5,500 hours of service in 2020. Volunteers at RTT worked in the barn, in lessons with clients, exercised horses, repaired and maintained the facilities and trails. Volunteers also served on the Board of Directors. RTT is celebrating the significant impact their volunteers make on the organization during National Volunteer Appreciation week- April 18th-24th.
Executive Director, Sarah Bronson noted that “RTT is fortunate to have many committed and passionate volunteers. We truly would not be where we are today without the hearts and hands of so many individuals who are at the farm each and every day. In our eyes, all of our volunteers are our heroes, but each year we recognize volunteers in certain categories.”
This year RTT recognizes the following individuals:
Pat Niboli (Volunteer of the Year); Maddie Hurley (Youth Volunteer of the Year); Janis Childs (Administrative Volunteer of the Year); Sue Smith (Rookie of the Year); Trish and David Vaughn (Barn Volunteers of the Year); and Lisa Fink (Volunteer Schooler Award).
RTT also recognized the following individuals and organizations for outstanding volunteer contributions:
• IATSE Local 114 – Maine
• Elizabeth Holmstrom of Mindful Employer
• The Platz Family
Volunteer Coordinator, Nick Doria shared, “We missed our volunteer picnic last year but hope to have an outdoor gathering later this summer.” Meanwhile RTT plans to post thank you signs and distribute goodies to show their appreciation of its volunteers.
This year a number of RTT volunteers will receive Presidential Service Awards and will be recognized on the Maine “Roll of Honor.”
President’s Volunteer Service Award Since 2003, the President’s Volunteer Service Award has recognized the important role of volunteers in America’s strength and national identity. This award honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities and inspires those around them to take action, too.The PVSA has continued under each administration, honoring the volunteers who are using their time and talents to solve some of the toughest challenges facing our nation. This year 13 RTT volunteers received The President’s Volunteer Service Award:
Bronze Level Awardees (Adult 100-249 hours/Young Adult 100-174 hours):
Clayton Peters Diane Powers Elizabeth Wood Fran Maxwell Maureen Mathieu
Stacie Hamilton Waldron
Silver Level Awardees (250 to 499 hours/Young Adult 175-249 hours):
David Vaughn
Trish Vaughn
Janis Childs
Patty Shaw
Gold Level Awardees (500 or more hours/Young Adult 250 or more hours):
Dan Morabito
Lina Jordan
Pat Niboli
Lifetime Award (4,000 or more hours)
Pat Niboli
Maine Governor's Awards for Service and Volunteerism Celebrates and recognizes the role of citizen volunteers in the success and vitality of Maine communities. At the same time, the awards seek to inspire others to be active in civic life and follow in the footsteps of those recognized.
This year, 6 volunteers made the Maine Roll of Honor:
Adult Roll of Honor
Dan Morabito
Pat Niboli
David Vaughn
Trish Vaughn
Youth Roll of Honor
Maddie Hurley
Lina Jordan
