It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Donna Gisle on February 11th. Donna was a pillar of the CTRC family, dedicating 35+ years of unwavering service to our riders, volunteers, horses, and staff. Her loss has left our community in shock, and she will be deeply missed in immeasurable ways.

 

Donna first joined CTRC in 1988 after answering a volunteer ad in the local paper—a moment that would shape the heart and soul of our organization for decades. Throughout her 35-year volunteer career, she became an irreplaceable presence, dedicating well over 30,000+ volunteer hours, working with more than 4,170+ participants, welcoming over 6,850+ new volunteers, and caring for nearly 790+ equine therapists. Her contributions were nothing short of extraordinary. 

 

Despite being the longest-serving volunteer in CTRC’s history, Donna remained incredibly humble. Her kindness, generosity, and steadfast commitment to our mission set a standard for volunteerism that few could match. She was honored as NARHA Region 10 Volunteer of the Year in 2006 and received CTRC’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010—one of only three ever awarded.

Donna’s dedication extended beyond the arena. She played a role in every aspect of CTRC—volunteering in lessons, feeding, turn-out, mucking, caring for horses, maintaining the facility, fundraising, and promoting our mission. Donna set the grain for the herd 3-4 days a week for years and years. Her impact reached countless riders and volunteers, shaping lives in ways both seen and unseen.

One of the most beautiful examples of her profound influence was her bond with a young rider named Joel. When Joel, a non-verbal seven-year-old with autism, first started at CTRC, it was Donna’s patient and compassionate presence that encouraged him to engage. In a moment that touched all who witnessed it, Joel spoke his very first word—“Donna”—a testament to the depth of their connection and her ability to change lives in the most meaningful ways.

 

Donna’s love for horses was undeniable, and she shared a deep bond with many of CTRC’s equine partners over the years. Her favorites, including Neko, Trompo, and Choice, held a special place in her heart. She cared for them with unwavering dedication, ensuring they received the same love and attention she gave to every rider and volunteer. Donna’s connection with these four-legged companions was a testament to her compassionate spirit and her belief in the profound healing power of horses.

Alongside her passion for volunteering, Donna was also a generous donor, ensuring that CTRC’s programs, horses, and riders continued to thrive. Whether she was supporting her beloved therapy horse, Neko, or stepping up during critical fundraising efforts, she gave with her whole heart, always seeking to make a difference.

 

Donna’s warmth, resilience, and selfless spirit have left an indelible mark on CTRC. We had the privilege of honoring her at the 2023 Volunteer of the Year celebration for her 35 years of service, believing she would one day return to us after stepping back in 2023 to care for her family. Her passing is an immense loss, but her legacy of love, dedication, and kindness will live on in all of us.

Donna was not only an exceptional volunteer but also a steadfast source of support and kindness. From my early days at CTRC as a volunteer, through my time as an instructor, and ultimately stepping into the role of Executive Director, Donna was there—offering guidance, encouragement, and an understanding ear. She recognized the challenges that come with leading an organization like CTRC, especially through the uncertainties of the pandemic, and she always found ways to uplift and support me, just as she did for so many others. I considered her a dear friend, and I know she was a cherished friend to many. She will be deeply missed, but her impact and legacy will remain forever woven into the fabric of CTRC.

 

To those who had the honor of knowing Donna, we invite you to share your memories, stories, and reflections. Let us celebrate the life of a truly remarkable woman who embodied the very best of our CTRC community.

To read Donna’s obituary, please visit: https://www.dailycamera.com/obituaries/donna-kay-brasel-gisle/

 

After Donna’s passing,  a scholarship fund was established to honor her love of CTRC and to assist riders. To donate to her scholarship fund click here. To apply for the scholarship, please reach out to programassistant@ctrcinc.org