July 2, 2026

If you are a regular at Prairie Strides Programming, you may have noticed me — the “wannabe cowboy” proudly representing our Western riders, working alongside our English riders and all the dedicated people who make up the Prairie Strides family.

I am here for one reason: someone told me the story.



One of our own reached out to me and shared the incredible work happening here. She asked for my help and participation. Alayne serves on the Prairie Strides Board of Directors, and because she asked, I agreed to lend a hand until more help came along.

Well… Alayne is my friend.

But then something unexpected happened. The children, the horses, the families, and this entire Prairie Strides community drew me in completely. Watching the impact unfold right in front of me changed me. I was hooked. That would never have happened if someone hadn’t taken the time to tell the story and ask for help.

The next time you see Alayne, thank her for all she does — because there is so much more happening behind the scenes than most people realize. And somehow, she still manages to do it all while holding down one of those 60+ hour-a-week jobs in her “spare time.”

If you are already a volunteer or donor, please know this: Prairie Strides would not exist without you. Your time, generosity, and commitment make this program possible for the children and families who depend on it. But for Prairie Strides to continue and grow, we need more people to do what Alayne did for me:

• Tell the story.

• Ask for help.

• Encourage participation.

That participation may look different for everyone. Some people may become volunteers — and we always need more helping hands. Others may choose to donate in a way that is meaningful and comfortable for them. Some may simply help spread awareness by sharing the Prairie Strides story with friends, coworkers, family, or community groups.

Every person matters. Every conversation matters.

People’s lives and circumstances change, and naturally there will always be turnover among volunteers and donors. That’s why sharing the story is so important. Every new connection creates another opportunity to help a child, support a family, and strengthen this incredible program.

Please help Prairie Strides continue its important work by telling the story — your story — and encouraging others to become part of this amazing community.

And if you need my help, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Mel Nott, Volunteer Fund Development Chair

MelNott@prairiestrides.com

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