Megan joined TCF in January 2024 and is half-leasing Amador. She has over 20 years of riding experience, primarily in hunters and jumpers. She also rode competitively for the University of Colorado Equestrian team. Growing up, Megan was known to jump on any horse she got the opportunity to ride, which proved to be advantageous as it strengthened her as a rider and prepared her well for the collegiate style of competition, where you often don’t know the horse you’re competing on. Megan has a love for all animals, and she has two cats and one dog at home.
Arvada – The Community Farm (TCF) is holding a contest to find new names for two mini donkeys that were welcomed to the farm earlier this week. The farm is asking the public for help in renaming the two donkeys – currently named Duncan and Goodboy – as they get a fresh start in their new home. The new minis will eventually join fellow donkeys Abby, Lulu, Miles, Bruno, and Pepsi (aka Blaster, the famous and beloved School of Mines mascot) as part of the Burro Patrol Team.
“Our donkeys provide such joy to so many through outreach to the public, farm members who are attending therapy sessions, burro patrol, burro racing and interacting with all the farm members. A name that fits them well is imperative to helping humans connect with these special beings,” says Carol von Michaelis, Owner and Founder of The Community Farm.
As Duncan and Goodboy begin their new chapter in life and prepare for the many new adventures that await, TCF is hoping to find new names that better suit their unique personalities. Although Duncan is a quiet boy who doesn’t bray, he is ready to explore, and is very curious to meet all the other animals on the farm. While also very gentle, friendly and curious, Goodboy is not afraid to speak his mind. Name suggestions must be submitted by March 7th at midnight here. There is no cost to enter the contest, however donations received will support donkey care, hay, treats, and veterinary costs. The winning names will be chosen by the TCF Advisory Committee and announced on Facebook Live on March 8 at 12pm.
“It’s been a joy to help facilitate the move of these two sweet fellas to TCF” says Carol Clark, TCF Advisory Board Member and Burro/Alpaca point person. “It will be exciting to watch the existing burro herd welcome the new minis and show them the ropes in the coming days. Doing activities they will learn to take part in through the programs the farm offers will give the boys a fresh lease on life and they will know that they have a purpose! Getting new names will signify this.” The Burro Patrol brings together adult and youth volunteers, donkeys, and goats to patrol the parks throughout Jefferson County Open Space. Their job is to walk the trails, talk with visitors, and make the parks a more welcoming space as animals have a natural ability to break down barriers and bring people together. The patrol team also helps beautify and protect Open Space through trash collection and participation in conservation projects that utilize the burros’ pack abilities and agility for trail-based projects. The program received the Douglas Fir Award at Jefferson County’s annual Open Space Conservation Awards Banquet earlier this month. In addition to joining the Burro Patrol, Duncan and Goodboy have the potential to join other TCF programs such as animal-assisted therapy and Colorado’s annual pack burro races.
Why did you join Pony Club? How long have you been a member?
I joined pony club because I thought my learning and growth in my riding would be furthered. It was even easier to grow with the sense of community and organization that pony club provides. I have been a member for about 2 years
What is your favorite thing about Pony Club?
My favorite thing about pony club is the team building and how I get to enjoy the sport I love with my friends by my side.
What is one of the most valuable lessons you have learned in/from Pony Club?
One of the most valuable lessons I have learned is that you need to take your time to master skills. It is so important to master skills before you can move up to a higher level of learning and riding.
What is the most challenging part of being in Pony Club?
The most challenging part of being in pony club is the thorough learning and skill development required before moving up to a new level of riding. It is a good thing because it helps me to master what is needed before I can learn to do bigger and better things.
What horse/horses do you ride? What do you love about them?
I ride Jack and I love his kind soul, the trust he has in me, the bond we have formed, and how beautiful of an animal he really is.
Anything else you would like to share about Pony Club or The Community Farm?
I would like to share how The Community Farm, the animals and the people have taught me more than I could ever ask for! TCF has been my favorite place for so long now.
How long have you been a member of The Community Farm and what brought you?
I have been a member almost 5 years, and I first came to talk to Carol about being a physician assistant as I was applying to school that fall. While I was visiting, Carol kept telling me to come ride “that big grey mare” and I haven’t left since then.
What kind of riding/showing do you do?
I show in 3-day events right now but grew up in the jumpers.
What is your favorite thing about TCF?
The relaxed atmosphere and lack of drama or judgement. Everyone is really supportive and encouraging of one another .
What is one of the most valuable lessons you have learned in/from your time at TCF?
I have learned how to think of horseback riding as a group effort and community endeavor vs competing against one another.
What horse/horses do you ride? What do you love about them?
Right now I ride Cannon, and I love that he is sensitive and smart but willing to listen to me. He has also been very fun to work on desensitizing with!
Anything else you would like to share about TCF?
It is the best place for people who love horses, horsemanship, and understand that riding isn’t just about sitting on the horse. If you are lucky enough to fit in with our weird group, then you will stay for life.
