Inmates.qxd:Florida Horse_template
6/10/11
10:40 AM
MONIKA FOSTER
“I’ve been doing time off and on since 2006. I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Evans a few times in 2007 while working on a squad that did some weed-eating around the farm. The first time I ever walked on the property I felt the peace that I’ve been longing for, especially in the prison system. I then knew that this is something I would love to do. But a few months later I was released never to think about it again. I grew up around family and friends that have owned horses. I used to go trail riding a lot and a few times I have tried barrel racing but life threw me in a different direction that I never intended on experiencing. With a seven-year sentence, my very first thought was, I’m going to get an education in something that I can build my life on. Equine was my first wish. This now is my third time in prison but for the first time I finally feel I have something to live for. I have struggled with who I am and my destiny for over 12 years now. I have never felt as comfortable in my path for a future as I feel getting an education from TRF. Even though I’m in prison I truly enjoy waking up every day knowing I’m going to get to take care of one of the most beautiful animals on the planet. This is a point in your life where you realize God has shown you the meaning of true living. I’m learning an extreme amount of patience and the ability to have a peace of mind. A lot of this actually comes from the heart of Mr. Evans. I’ve never met a man on this earth that I respect more. He has the patience and knowledge that I adore, and I learn so much from him every day. I strive to the full extent of my work ethic to earn trust and respect from my now mentor.” KIMBERLY MCGIVERN
“I was absolutely devastated when I received a threeyear sentence to prison. My world literally came crashing down around me. I thought ‘I can’t do this.’I thought my life was over with. I was a drug addict and I hit rock bottom. I came to prison with no self worth and a very low self esteem. I was embarrassed and ashamed of myself because of the things I had done. I hurt everyone in my life, especially those closest to me. I spent my first 6 months in prison depressed and isolated. I went through the motions just to get through the day. Time stood still.
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I received a blessing when I was placed into the equine program here at Lowell Correctional Institutional work camp. Working in the program is phenomenal! It has helped me become motivated again and has helped heal the bruises I’ve inflicted upon myself mentally. Working with any type of animal is very healing to a human whether it is a 5-lb. Chihuahua or a 2,000-lb. thoroughbred horse. It just so happens we work with very powerful and strong thoroughbreds. Even with all their strength, they are some of the kindest, gentlest creatures. They have hearts and souls made of gold. They need attention, medical care, and most of all they need a lot of love. We are able to give it to them and they give it back to us in more ways than one. We work hard every day to make sure our horses are cared for properly. This program helps us become a better person, a better woman. We are learning work ethics, dedication, teamwork and patience. We are gaining strength within ourselves and passing it to our horses. Most of all the qualities we are gaining we are able to take with us when we get released. Being involved in this program has given me a sense of self gratification and accomplishment. I’m proud to have been given this opportunity to be a part of that.” SHANNON REIGER
“I have been incarcerated in the department of corrections in Ocala, Florida, for the past 11 years. I have struggled through this prison sentence with nothing to show for but wasted time. Until 2 ½ years ago I entered the Equine program sponsored by TRF. I can remember my first day coming to the farm and touching the horses, as tears rolled down my face. I was back doing what I love, working with horses. I’ve always been an animal lover but my love and passion for horses runs very deep. Mr. John Evans, our instructor, teaches the women here the proper care, responsibility and dedication that it takes to run a successful farm. He is a very knowledgeable man that we have grown to care, respect and very much appreciate and is definitely my mentor. Without him and his experience in the equine industry I know I wouldn’t be in the place I am today. The women here in this program I have grown to love and respect for all of the hard work and dedication they have for the horses and this program. We work hard to give the best care and love for each and every one of these horses because they mean so much to us. Just knowing
Kimberly McGivern with Pan For Gold (above) Monika Foster with Lifeʼs a Whirl (center) and Shannon Reiger with Hurricane Sergio (below)
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