On August 9th, we gathered for a special afternoon of appreciation at Timi’s Tea, a tradition named in honor of former board member Timi, whose vision first brought this event to life. Over delicious refreshments and plenty of conversation, we had the opportunity to celebrate some of the remarkable people whose generosity and dedication help AHEAD With Horses continue its mission.

Guests included our generous major donors, our dedicated GEM (Give Every Month) donors, and volunteers who contributed more than 30 hours during the past fiscal year. Timi’s Tea is our chance to step away from the day-to-day activity of the ranch and simply say thank you to those who give so much of their time, resources, and support.

We were especially proud to recognize the volunteers who went above and beyond by contributing more than 100 hours of service during the past year. Although not everyone was able to join us in person, we are honored to recognize Alex Aguilar, Lisa Baragosh, Judy Beem, Andrew Berdin, Julie Casey, Deneane Clementi, Gloryann Cosans, Pamela Currie, Giovanna DeSoto, Anna Johns, Nancy Kenyon, Cynthia Khosravian, Arline Latino, Judi Lohne, Kathleen Meyer, Floyd Newman, and Dominick Ramos.

Every hour they give helps strengthen our program, care for our horses, support our students, and make everything we do at AHEAD With Horses possible.

Each year, we also present our Volunteer Extraordinaire award to someone whose service and commitment have been truly exceptional. This year’s award was presented to Deneane Clementi.

Deneane began volunteering at AHEAD With Horses last summer, shortly before last year’s Timi’s Tea, and quickly became an important part of the AWH community. During the most recent fiscal year alone, from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026, she contributed more than 800 volunteer hours. She can be found at the ranch several times each week assisting with lessons, helping care for the horses, and capturing photos and videos that allow us to share the personalities of our horses and the work of AWH on social media.

But her impact extends far beyond the hours she spends at the ranch. In recent months, Deneane has helped connect AWH with donations and services including our new sign, rain gutters for the barn, tree trimming, and massage therapy and hoof care for our horses. She has introduced a significant new donor to our program and, most recently, has taken on grant writing to help us pursue additional funding for the future. In an incredibly short time, Deneane has found countless ways to see a need and help fill it, and we were delighted to recognize her extraordinary contribution.

We are deeply grateful to every volunteer and donor who gives so generously of their time, talents, resources, and heart. Your support allows our students to continue to Ride~Smile~Grow.

Would you like to join us at next year’s Timi’s Tea? Start logging your volunteer hours today, become a GEM donor, or support AHEAD With Horses as a major donor. We would love to celebrate you next year!