Riding For Dreams
Our Team
Riding For Dreams is a therapeutic riding program located in Southeast North Dakota. Our mission is to provide children with the opportunity to ride horses and experience the freedom and joy that comes with it. We believe that every child should have the chance to pursue their dreams, and we are dedicated to making that a reality through our program.
The Board of Directors
President
Roberta Forward
Board member since 2022, Roberta volunteered first in the summer of 2010, then again became involved when her granddaughter began as a rider in the summer of 2021. She has had horses nearly all of her life and currently owns and raises a few Appaloosas. Roberta resides in Oakes and loves the impact horses have on the growth and wellbeing of their students, volunteers, and community.
Vice President
Kay Foss
I grew up in the Lisbon area. With 2 older sisters and one younger I Married a local Farmer, Ranch boy. We raised a Son and a Daughter and also have 3 Granddaughters and 1 Great Grandson and 2 Great Granddaughter
I worked at the local Hospital for 25 years as an X-ray and Lab. Technician. I have always loved being outside, so helping with the cow/calf production fit right in. We also were lucky to have 3 sets of younger friends with children, at different times, who were like our own. So we never grew old
without younger children around.
I rode my first horse at age four and was never without one or more horses in my life. Also, a loving Donkey who keeps his eye on me now. I also was given the chance to imprint 3 colts, which is pretty awesome.
I joined the Riding for Dreams organization in 2011, as a volunteer and board member. I have been active as a horse handler, and helping the students was ever needed. As a volunteer, YOU gain so much with the interaction between horse and student. It's something that can’t be seen, it has to be FELT. As a board member, I have been active with our fundraising events, along with being so PROUD of how far we have grown. Without our faithful Volunteers and generous community, Riding For Dreams would and could not exist! JOIN THE GROUP!!
Treasurer
Diane Wallin
Diane Wallin and her husband, Gary, had a unique experience with Riding for Dreams. When the program was first forming, they had the privilege of offering their indoor riding arena for its use. They enjoyed that honor for the first three years until Laurie and Rodney Bischof built an arena at their farm south of Lisbon. The horses were stabled there, so it was a good move for Riding for Dreams, but not as much for Diane and Gary as they miss the fun of having students, volunteers, and horses filling their arena. Diane accepted the position of treasurer in 2012. As a retired banker, she enjoys keeping the finances in order. She never ceases to be amazed at the faithful support they receive from generous donors throughout the area. One of her favorite "duties" is sending thank you notes to people, organizations, and agencies far and wide. She also volunteers as a side walker. Diane's heart is filled with beautiful memories of amazing times with their students and their families. It is a joy for her to be part of their lives!
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Secretary
Janice Bishop
Janice is married to Kevin Bishop and they reside near Little Yellowstone Park in Ransom County. Together they have two sons, Dustin, married to Sam, and Dillon married to Cassidy . They have three granddaughters, Charlie, Suede, and Ryder, who keep them busy and are very blessed to have them in their daily lives. Janice has been involved with Riding for Dreams since 2009 and has served on the board since it's origination. Kevin and Janice have hosted an annual event at their residence for the past 13 years which includes a trail ride and steak supper as one of the main fundraising events for Riding for Dreams. Janice became involved with Riding for Dreams because she had listened to many discussions amongst Laurie, Stacy and Lonnie as they discussed and planned out their dreams about helping others and incorporating horses in doing so. She believed in their vision and mission and gave in ways that she could to make their dreams come true. Seeing the difference it can make in the life of an individual is truly heartfelt.
Board Member
Dana Erickson
Board Member
Lonnie Rotenberger