At Colorado Horse Rescue, there’s a special kind of magic that flows through the pastures, carried on the gentle whinnies of horses and the passion of dedicated volunteers. Among these volunteers stands Karen Burton. With over a decade of service, Karen’s journey from horse enthusiast to invaluable volunteer is a testament to her dedication to CHR’s mission.
Rooted in Love
Karen’s love for horses traces back to her childhood, sparked by a ride on her cousin’s horse at the age of five. It wasn’t until 2006, however, that she welcomed her first horse, Cucumber, into her life. Through her equine veterinarian, who was also CHR’s vet at the time, Karen became acquainted with CHR and its mission, planting the seeds for her future involvement.
Joining the CHR Community
In 2011, following a 30-year career with the City of Boulder, Karen started volunteering at CHR. Joined by a small team of dedicated individuals, Karen found enjoyment in hands on feeding, mucking, and helping in any way she could.
CHR, a Place of Hope
To Karen, CHR represents more than just a rescue facility – it’s a haven of hope and compassion for every horse that walks through its gates. In her words, “I love that CHR looks at each individual horse and does what is best for them. Sometimes it is food, water, love and attention, training; unfortunately, sometimes it is the hard decision that no one wants to make. I love watching the horses change from scared and distrustful into attention loving cuddle-bugs.”
Treasured Moments
Karen’s journey is filled with cherished memories, particularly the open houses and events where she shared her passion for CHR with visitors. Guiding tours, sharing stories, and witnessing the connections created between humans and horses fills Karen with a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment.
As we celebrate Karen Burton’s remarkable service, we are reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many. Her dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment serve as an inspiration to us all. Today, we celebrate Karen, not only as CHR’s longest-serving volunteer but also as someone who truly embodies the spirit of caring for and loving all horses. Thank you, Karen, for your tireless dedication and for being a guiding light in our community.
Are you interested in becoming a volunteer? Click here to learn more.