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Rosemary has a background in teaching and when she and her family moved to Colorado in 2007, she created Laughing Buck Farm and turned their farm into her outdoor classroom. In addition to offering riding lessons and 4-H horse programs for children, she created Farm School, where kids of all ages work, play and learn outside as they ride and care for horses, gather eggs, milk goats, feed the pigs, care for the rabbits, tend to the garden and swing in the huge haybarn.
In order to help kiddos with special needs, in 2018 she founded the nonprofit, Friends of Laughing Buck Farm, in 2018 to create a therapeutic riding program, create a scholarship for families in need, and grow our partnerships with other therapy providers. FarmHer Rosemary continues to find therapeutic benefits in this unique setting and loves exposing kids, adults and families to the joys of connecting with nature, moving their bodies through work and play, and developing relationships with creatures great and small. |
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What first drew me to Laughing Buck Farm was my love of horses, which started as a young girl. I grew up in PA where I rode and even had a horse for a year while in 6th grade (a very special year!) I moved to Colorado in 1980 and it has been many years since I have been connected to horses…. until Laughing Buck Farm.
What I quickly learned is that Laughing Buck Farm is so much more than the sweet equines. It is a place where all are welcomed, appreciated and nurtured. I am thrilled to be connected to this strong community, am learning so much, and love volunteering with the students, animals, other volunteers and great teachers. What I see here is happy kids, in a supportive environment, laughing and playing, growing in self-confidence, and learning to understand and love aspects of the natural world. I am also honored to have joined the Board and be part of working toward expanded opportunities for kids of all ages to learn and grow through the experiences of life on the farm, and care for animals, plants, and each other. |
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I grew up in IL and spent my childhood and teen years riding and showing horses. Although I never had my own horse, I spent all of my free time at the barn. I was there because of my love for the horses but instead learned firsthand about all they gave to me; emotional healing, physical strength, patience, leadership, and self-confidence.
I am passionate about the unique healing and growth that comes from working with horses. Their ability to reflect our emotions, foster confidence, and build trust makes them incredible partners in personal development and community connection. I believe strongly in the way horses can nurture resilience, responsibility, and joy in people of all ages and abilities, and I love being a part a community that values these traits. As both a volunteer and board member, I am honored to help create opportunities for kids and families to connect with horses and experience the life-changing impact they offer. |
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I love the community that is Laughing Buck Farm. I don’t think I have ever felt so comfortable, welcomed and appreciated as I have at the farm. I have learned so much from the leaders and hope to continue learning and being involved. Both my grandparents had farms and I have wonderful memories of both.
Kids today NEED to see and experience life on a farm! |
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For 35 years I taught swim lessons to children of all ages and abilities, coached swim teams and trained teens to become lifeguards.
As a teenager I was very fortunate to own my own horse. I had an appaloosa gelding named Storm. My horse taught me responsibility, courage and independence. From his back I gained a deep appreciation for the natural world. Volunteering at LBF has enabled me to reconnect with my two loves; horses and working with children! I'm so grateful to have found this wonderful community. Volunteering at the farm is just as therapeutic and beneficial for me as it is for the participants. I hope to contribute to this special community in any way I can. |
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As a mom of two boys and someone who values community centered programs, my family was introduced to Laughing Buck Farm when my youngest son was very young and in need of a meaningful, hands on connection. Laughing Buck Farm's inclusion is what brought me to become involved and it has continued to be a place where we feel deeply connected. The farm quickly became a place where my son could grow, explore, and feel understood and in turn, it has become an important part of our lives.
I’m grateful to support a mission that aligns with my heart and am honored to be an integral member of the Nonprofit Board. |
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A native New Yorker, I have lived in Fort Collins since 2022. I am currently attending Front Range Community College, working on completing my degree to become a preschool teacher.
When I'm not working at the First United Methodist Co-Op Preschool, I spend my time with my amazing five-year-old niece Poppy. Poppy and I have taken several classes at the farm and have loved every minute. In my free time I also enjoy crafting, spending time with my family, and crocheting. I am excited to be useful to the organization for years to come. |
