Trent Volunteers
 Story by Coordinator of Educational Opportunities & Resources, Becky Sluiter
 
 
Integrity. Collaborative Relationships. Financial Responsibility. Excellence. These words define South Dakota Achieve’s (SDA) commitment of services provided to people supported.  These same words also define the outstanding volunteers who give their time and talents to people at SDA.


Volunteers are extremely important! Volunteers bring a special spark to people’s lives by offering their time, individual talents, resources and friendship. A spark that paid staff just can not ignite. The words “Trent Trip” happens to be one of those sparks.

What is Trent? Trent is an acreage surrounded by the gorgeous fields of green, mature trees, a curvy river and a place to picnic.  How did Trent begin? A volunteer and special friend to SDA has provided people at SDA to access his land during the summer months.  Who else makes Trent a place of lasting memories? Trent is also a place where over 40 volunteers meet to share their time, talents and their friendship. Trent is not just a place, it is a spark to new life experiences beginning with friendships.


During the 2009 summer months, over 300 people with disabilities had the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and friendships at Trent. 

Volunteers share their talents of fishing by helping people to learn about the sport of fishing and develop friendships while sharing the stories of the ones that got away.

 

Volunteers share their resources by bringing their personal farm animals such as goats, rabbits, and ponies.  Volunteers take time to help people to learn about the specific animals. They also provide that “farm life” experience that everyone should have the chance to experience.

Volunteers share their horses and ponies for people to experience horseback riding.  At Trent, there is a standing line and everyone can take their turn once, twice or as many times as they wish to ride.


Over twenty-five people have had their first experience riding horse at Trent! The horse volunteers see no disability as a barrier and will adapt to anyone’s needs to ensure a safe and positive experience on the horse. Their humor and kindness is also an added bonus to the riding experience.

Volunteers share their resources of horse drawn wagons. It is a breath taking view as the horses pull up with the wagons attached. The wagon drivers greet people with a smile and conversation as people aboard the wagon for a long ride through the country.  There is something to be said about finding inner peace as you enjoy the ride.

 
To each of the 40 Trent volunteers ~ Thank You! Thank You for your time!  Thank you for your resources!  And most importantly, thank you for your friendship! Each volunteer impacts SDA’s Core Values of Integrity,  Collaborative Relationships, Financial Responsibility, and Excellence but most importantly each of you make a positive impact in people’s lives! It is no wonder that people get a spark in their eye when they hear about the upcoming Trent trip. We are grateful to share these experiences with you!  Looking forward to seeing you next summer and making more memories!