At the 2022 end of year celebration for HorsePower Hills, Julie Smith was awarded the Ron Wilson Perpetual Trophy for being an outstanding volunteer. Julie has been a volunteer in the Saturday morning Hippotherapy programs, since 2008. Her dependability, coupled with her bright personality, has made her a valued team member.
Julie commented on receiving her award on 27 November 2022,
“Hippo and Horsepower is a really important part of my life. I can't explain how happy and fulfilled it makes me feel. Going to Hippo on a Saturday morning seeing all the team, both equine and human is just wonderful. Seeing the smiling faces of the kids and parents is priceless. We have an amazing team and I am so proud to be part of it. It's my therapy too after a week at work and life in general. I hope to be a part of Hills Horsepower until I can do no more.”
Julie attending volunteering training for HorsePower Hills
Julie side walking for Hippotherapy client.
Ron Wilson was an outstanding volunteer who assisted at Telethon Community Cinemas for over a decade, working several nights per week. His contribution at TCC was linked to fundraising for RDA Hills Group, later HorsePower Hills. Ron’s work ensured the financial viability of HorsePower Hills. His grand-daughter Rebekah Millard has been a rider at Hills since 1998 and has served on the Hills Committee as President and Vice President as well as volunteering at TCC. Ron’s wife Alison also served as Hills President and as a volunteer at TCC. Ron has passed away, but his memory lives on with the Ron Wilson Perpetual Trophy for Outstanding Volunteer.
Julie is the second recipient of the award, as the first recipient was Judy Strickland in September 2020. Judy, who is a Life Member of Hills, has volunteered at Hills in the riding program for decades including loaning her horse for lessons. Judy and her family were also long-term volunteers for Hills at TCC, contributing to significant fundraising. Ron presented the trophy to Judy shortly before his death.
HorsePower Hills would like to thank all of its volunteers for their time, hard work and dedication this year, as without them it cannot provide its services to the community. HorsePower Hills wishes everyone a happy and safe Christmas and New year!