Redmond resident Jennifer Anderson has been named as the Save a Forgotten Equine (SAFE) February volunteer of the month. She was selected for this honor because of her “infectious cheerfulness, her willingness to take on new assignments, including leadership of the morning crew, her work ethic and consistently positive attitude regardless of the weather, changes in farm protocols or circumstances,” reads a press release.

SAFE is a nonprofit in Redmond that rescues and rehabilitates horses that have been starved, neglected or abused and provides its horses with needed veterinary care, hoof care and additional training to help ensure them a safe and productive future.

Anderson moved from the Phoenix, Arizona, area two years ago and was looking for a volunteer opportunity with animals. She discovered SAFE at an information booth at Redmond’s Derby Days last summer. Anderson was astounded that she could be around horses even though she didn’t have any experience with them.

“I’ve always loved horses but hadn’t had the opportunity in life to be around them. It was a perfect fit,” she said.

Her favorite SAFE horse is Nashville, an 11-year old quarter horse mare.

Anderson says, “Volunteering at SAFE has been such a blessing in my life. I’m not a morning person, but I look forward to getting up every week to see the horses, spend time with awesome volunteers and make sure the horses are well cared for. I have learned more than I could have imagined in my time with SAFE. When I first started I was a little scared of the horses, if there wasn’t a fence between us. Now, that fear has transformed into caution and awareness. I learn something new every single shift. Its hard work, but I love every minute of it.”

When she isn’t working her full-time job or volunteering at SAFE, Anderson sings with the Redmond Chorale, is an avid reader, enjoys wine tasting and spending time with her 13-year old rescue dog, Cody.

Anyone interested in getting involved as a volunteer at SAFE can contact volunteer@safehorses.org, or go online to www.safehorses.org and fill out our volunteer application. Volunteer orientations are usually held twice a month, and all volunteers receive training. Prior experience working with and around horses is a plus, but not a requirement.