If you’ve been down to the ranch anytime during our winter session, you’ve probably had the opportunity to meet Julia. While it’s true – she’s petite – she’s mighty. Julia brings her energy and drive, daily. Without a doubt, she’s truly an asset to the Swiftsure team.

Julia was initially inspired to join Swiftsure after spending time as a volunteer on the ranch. Even though her first hands-on interactions with the ranch were in the fall, she had known about Swiftsure for years. She grew up visiting her grandparents in the Wood River Valley, and they have been involved with the ranch for many years. Inevitably, Julia was influenced by the stories she heard. When she decided it was time to make the move, she dove in head-first. After all, it was a great opportunity to explore somewhere new and spend more time with her grandparents. Julia was also juggling her Masters, online, all the while.

Before she made the move to Idaho, she was living in a rural spot in California, where she worked in the rec department for her local city. Having this experience, plus knowledge with horses, and her Masters underway – she was the perfect fit. Once you get to know her, you’ll realize she fits right in. Ultimately, her experience, passion, and personality were exactly what Swiftsure needed

We asked her, why Swiftsure? and her answer was simple. With family ties to the Marine Corps, she’s always been drawn to organizations that support veterans. She was equally impressed with Swiftsure’s community-wide impact. One word that came to mind for Julia was empowerment; the ranch empowers individuals to tackle their struggles, head-on.

We also asked Julia to talk about the primary focus of Swiftsure – the focus of healing.  Healing all aspects: physically, mentally, emotionally, etc. Julia noted that providing equine activities is an approachable, unique healing method. Equine therapy is a universal healing mechanism. Regardless of trauma, it is a powerful way to heal. Julia is rooted in the belief that equine therapy can be for anyone. It’s an incredible, life-changing resource.

As we continued our conversation with Julia, we asked her about her favorite part of Swiftsure Ranch. She responded with, “The people that make up Swiftsure. The staff is so fun, the riders are so inspiring.” Julia also noted, “I almost tear up at the end of the day simply from some of the riders’ experiences.” Ultimately, the team works extremely hard. For Julia, it’s very rewarding to be a part of a team that cares. Feeling valued is something she doesn’t take for granted.

Towards the end of our chat, we asked Julia to give us her elevator pitch for the ranch. Her answer was spot on. “Swiftsure Ranch empowers all people of different abilities to connect and heal and develop themselves as a person. I think that we can all do that, and it’s worth the time and energy to pursue equine therapy.”

We know this won’t be the last you hear about Julia and the crew here at the ranch. We hope that next time you see her out and about, be sure to say hi! She’s a great asset to the ranch, and an even better asset to the community.

For more information on what Swiftsure Ranch offers, you can find out by clicking here. Additionally, you can subscribe to our newsletters to stay as up-to-date as possible! We may sound like a broken record, but we truly appreciate your continued support. We are so grateful for our strong community.