Molly Hayes started horseback riding lessons at Rose of Sharon Equestrian School (ROSES) in middle school and was immediately drawn to the horses. Throughout high school, she volunteered at a school dedicated to equine therapy and basic horsemanship for people with disabilities, and she particularly enjoyed working with the younger students.
Upon graduation in 2009, she accepted a position as a stable hand and she has been there ever since. ROSES Founder and Executive Director Joan Twining said, “She starts promptly at 8 am each day feeding, watering, grooming and providing hay for the horses and then cleaning out all of the stalls and walkways while the horses are out in the pasture. Over the years, she has become more proficient and independent accepting greater responsibilities.”
Molly with her supervisor Connor, ROSES Founder Joan, and a special guest photo bomber
Whether mentoring the young students, training new volunteers, or working at special events, Molly is an ideal ambassador for ROSES and its many programs. Molly’s mother Stephanie, a board member at the school, stated “Molly has learned so much under Joan’s leadership and working with the horses. She has gained confidence in herself as well as learning responsibility, compassion, and independence. The many skills needed to work in the barn have become second nature to her.”
Molly just beams when she is with the horses in the stable. She exclaims, “I love working with the horses and the many students and volunteers. My favorite part is helping them to groom the horses.”
