Volunteer Award Winner Julia Reilly: Being a Hero for Horses in Maryland

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 7, 2024 / Julia Reilly, senior legal analyst, has turned her lifelong passion for horses into purpose with the Fair Hill Emergency Response Team (FHERT). Since 2019, Julia has spent countless hours working with the all-volunteer team, bringing a humane and dignified approach to large animal rescue in Northern Maryland, Northern Delaware, as well as Eastern and Lower Pennsylvania.

Through her volunteer work, Julia earned Exelon's highest achievement for volunteerism and community involvement, the Powering Communities Employee Volunteer award, and FHERT a $5,000 grant. We spoke with Julia about the organization, how it serves its community, and of course - her horse, Finn.

Why are you passionate about Fair Hill Emergency Response Team (FHERT)?

It's a blend of my passion for horses and the convenience of being nearby. Firstly, I own a horse, and with that comes the necessity of having a well-thought-out plan for when things inevitably go awry. I don't own a truck or trailer, so I've always needed to have a plan in the event that I would need to transport my horse to an equine hospital. Since 2019, I have boarded my horse with Jo Ann Bashore who leads FHERT and just by being around the barn, I was exposed to the organization. For example, we planned to ride on New Year's Day, but a call came in about a calf in distress. Without hesitation, we jumped into the ambulance and rushed to assist. Working with FHERT is not just about passion - it's also about being in the right place at the right time.

In the horse community, we all pitch in to support one another. Whether we're going for a ride or handling emergencies, we ensure everyone is taken care of, and that nobody gets left behind. It's an extension of my commitment to caring for the community I'm part of.

What is the horse community like in your area?

Maryland has a very large horse population. At one point, Maryland had the highest number of horses per capita of any state in the country. We also have large events, like the Fair Hill International Five-Star Event, which is one of only two events at its level in the United States, and one of seven internationally.

What kind of services does FHERT provide?

We handle a wide range of situations. For instance, if a horse gets cast, meaning it's lying down in a way it can't get up, we have the tools like ropes and straps to assist in getting the horse back on its feet. Additionally, we respond to various other issues and emergencies, such as transporting horses that need medical attention or surgery. Our organization is equipped with diverse equipment and skills to address a variety of equine-related needs, as well as other large animals. We will also go to horse shows and serve as emergency personnel in case of any issues, and we host obstacle course clinics and de-sensitization classes to help people train their horses.