Volunteer Story: Rob Shiely — “Helping Make the Magic Happen”
Rob Shiely has been a dedicated volunteer at High Hopes since 2016. After seeing an ad in the newspaper, he decided to join the team as part of his retirement plan. Having been around horses his entire life, Rob wanted to share the joy and exhilaration they’ve brought him with others.
“It’s amazing being a part of the volunteer team and involved where the magic happens,” Rob says.
Rob began his journey at High Hopes as a side walker in lessons, later transitioning to barn work and assisting with horse turn-in. These days, he helps with morning feedings and cleaning the paddocks. Over the years, Rob has made countless memories and continues to be inspired by what he sees.
One of the things that moves him most is witnessing the transformation in participants once they’re in the saddle. “It’s incredible to see their posture and attitude change,” he says.
Rob cherishes the peaceful moments, too—like early mornings in the paddocks, watching the sun rise and reflect off dragonfly wings. “It’s just so peaceful and enjoyable. I love it.”
One standout memory for Rob was during a lesson when a young participant was having trouble staying focused. Suddenly, the instructor began singing, and the child lit up—engaged and smiling. “It was like flipping a light switch,” Rob recalls. “Everyone’s fun to be around when horses are involved!”
Rob values the relationships he’s built through volunteering. One particularly touching moment was with a little girl he often side-walked with. At the end of one of their first lessons, she took off her helmet and asked him to fix her braids. “I didn’t know how to braid, but I was honored she trusted me enough to ask.”
Originally from a small town in Minnesota, Rob spent 37 years working as an engineer. Moving to Connecticut and becoming part of the High Hopes community opened his eyes to a whole new world. “I had no idea what was out there until I came here,” he reflects. “High Hopes has shown me just how many wonderful opportunities there are.”
Beyond the barn, Rob enjoys connecting with others through a shared love of horses. His go-to icebreaker, “Ever ridden a horse?”, has helped him find common ground with all kinds of people. Horses have long been part of his life—he grew up watching his sister compete, eventually took lessons himself, and even gave his daughter riding lessons for Christmas one year. She’s been hooked ever since.
When asked about his favorite horse at High Hopes, Rob chooses Warrior. “He’s so kind and gentle. He always lowers his head so you can easily put his halter or feed bag on.”
Outside of High Hopes, Rob enjoys cycling with his wife, caring for their home, and spending time with his grandchildren. Looking ahead, he hopes High Hopes can continue to grow and serve even more people in need.