I'm deeply honored to share that I have been selected as one of Surprise City Lifestyle’s Influential Women of the Year 2025, featured in their Best of the West issue! This recognition celebrates women who are not only leaders in their field—but changemakers in their community. And I am proud to represent both my home state of Arizona and our mission at Legend Acres, Legend’s Heroes, and Ride With Honor.

The Journey from Service to Service

After proudly serving in the U.S. Army as a Combat Veteran Preventive Medicine Specialist, I had dreams of continuing my path in the Army Veterinary Corps. But life had other plans. Following a medical retirement, I took the passion I had for animals and service—and built a new mission from the ground up.

Legend Acres was born in honor of my heart dog, Legend—a Golden Retriever who inspired me to build something bigger than myself. What started as a training and wellness initiative for dogs and horses quickly evolved into a nationwide movement, offering:

• Affordable, science-based service dog training

• Equine-assisted therapy and natural horsemanship

• Job creation and mentorship for fellow Veterans and military spouses

• Scholarships through the nonprofit Legend’s Heroes

Why This Recognition Matters

Being named an Influential Woman of the Year is about more than titles—it's about the impact behind the work. At Legend Acres, we fight every day to prevent behavioral euthanasia, empower families with service animals, and break down financial barriers to life-changing training. Every dog we train. Every Veteran we mentor. Every family we support. That’s the legacy we’re building together.

We’ve helped hundreds of individuals across the country gain confidence, independence, and healing—through the powerful bond between humans and animals.

A Heartfelt Thank You

Thank you to Surprise City Lifestyle for this incredible honor, and to every client, supporter, and friend who’s walked this path with us. This is your victory too. I’m just getting started—and I’m taking Arizona with me.

Let’s Keep Leading with Purpose

If you're looking for results-driven training, a community-centered approach, and a partner in your animal wellness journey—Legend Acres is here for you.

Join us. Train with us. Grow with us.

🐴 Empower Healing, One Volunteer at a Time

At Legend Acres, volunteering is more than helping—it’s healing. From therapy dog preparation to equine-assisted interventions, our programs uplift veterans, first responders, healthcare workers, educators, and neurodivergent individuals through animal connection. And we’re inviting YOU to be a vital part of that mission.

Our community-focused, trauma-informed approach ensures that every volunteer makes a meaningful impact. Whether you're greeting guests, grooming horses, supporting mounted activities, or lending a hand at therapy dog evaluations, your role changes lives.

👥 Who Can Volunteer?

We welcome:

• Adults and youth 16+ (under 16 with guardian)

• Students seeking service hours

• Retirees seeking purpose

• Corporate teams looking for meaningful service

• Homeschoolers looking for hands-on animal experiences

• Anyone with a love for dogs, horses, and helping others

You don’t need animal experience. Just a heart for service.

🌟 Volunteer Roles Include:

Pet Therapy Program Support

• Assist in Pet Partners handler prep classes

• Help set up and manage therapy dog evaluations

• Role-play as hospital patients with walkers or canes

• Provide comfort and support to handler/dog teams

Equine Events & Programs

• Support “Riding with Honor” intro ride nights

• Help with “Healing with Horses” for veterans

• Grooming, leading, side-walking, or assisting in mounted games

• Hospitality, check-ins, setup/breakdown, and hydration stations

Community Engagement

• Support at open houses and education days

• Represent Legend Acres at outreach events

• Help with social media, photography, and guest support

❓ Top Questions Answered

1. Can I volunteer without animal experience?

Absolutely. We provide on-site training. Many of our most impactful volunteers had no experience when they started.

2. Is there an age limit to volunteering?

We welcome volunteers of all ages. Volunteers under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

3. Do you offer group or corporate volunteering?

Yes! We partner with businesses, Veteran Resource Groups, and schools. Email info@legend-acres.com to set up a group service day.

4. What is the time commitment?

You can volunteer as little as one day a month or become a regular helper. Every role, no matter the time, makes a difference.

5. Can volunteers earn service hours or get experience for careers in veterinary or therapy work?

Yes. We offer certificates of completion and letters of recommendation after successful volunteer participation.

💛 Why Legend Acres?

• Combat-disabled, woman-owned nonprofit

• BBB Torch Award Ethics Finalist 2026

• Certified force-free, fear-free trainers

• Official Pet Partners Community Partner

• Serving Arizona veterans, first responders, and families

• Scholarships through Legends Heroes & Horses 4 Heroes

📍 Locations:

✅ Ready to Make a Difference?

Whether it’s one evening or a monthly commitment, your time and heart bring healing where it’s needed most.