Jackie Shapaker
First Responders & Veterans Program Coordinator, Instructor
As the daughter of a Coast Guard officer, I moved a lot. My family and horses were always my “home”. After going to so many schools, it was great to spend 4 years at Virginia Tech…Go Hokies! Riding has been my lifelong passion where today I am dedicated to the study of dressage. I also love spending time with my family, traveling, and being in nature. Our family’s motto is “Life begins when you leave your comfort zone”. At Helping Horse, I love being an instructor and the coordinator for our First Responders & Veterans Program. Other roles I have held are Program Manager, Instructor Coordinator, and Training Team Lead. It is amazing to be part of the students’ journeys as they grow and learn with horses by their sides. We are facilitators and the horses are the teachers! In addition to Helping Horse, I facilitate equine assisted workshops and teach lessons.
Certifications:
– PATH Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning
– Natural Lifemanship Trained Level 1
If I were a horse, my name would be Flyer and my favorite snack would be peaches.
– Jackie Shapaker
First Responders & Veterans Program Coordinator and Instructor
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Rider Testimonials
See how Helping Horse is making a difference in people lives.
We LOVE Helping Horse. It is an AMAZING program for children with disabilities…it shows them a different way of life; just because they are disabled doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy that way of life. You guys have been a gift from God! We love you!
Riding has helped Kate respond faster and talk loud enough for the horses to hear commands like "walk on!" Each week she meets her horse, Del, at the gate and is ready to ride. Helping Horse really is an awe-inspiring program.
We love Helping Horse! Being able to see Cassie's joy and love for the horses, the therapeutic riding activities, and the people brings us immeasurable feelings of belonging to a group of people who connects with ALL of our family... Let's just say that being included altogether is never taken for granted and creates the very best memories!
Thank You To All Our Supporters!
