Community Corner

Young Women Sought for Equestrian Program

Those selected will receive first-hand knowledge of caring for horses in a rural Murrieta setting

A Murrieta woman who has spent much of her life around horses is looking to give back by giving the same experience to less fortunate young women.

Pauline Stotensberg, along with her husband, Henry Stotensberg, owns Yesteryear Farms in La Cresta, west of Murrieta. The 30-acre ranch is home to four of their own horses and many others they board and care for.

After Henry started a mentoring program with young men that centered around film making, Pauline said she got inspired to do something similar with young women. The young men produced a film, "The Traveler," that was submitted to film festivals. Five of them went on to study film. The group will work on another film this summer at Yesteryear Farms.

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Henry said he identified with many of the youth in his mentoring program because when he was younger, he dropped out of high school. Now a successful businessman, he saw that some learn differently.

"They had a passion for the arts and music," Henry said.

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Now, Pauline will also fulfill her dream by starting the equestrian program.

"This opportunity is for young girls to experience what they would otherwise not have the opportunity to experience," Pauline said.

This summer, those selected will work with Pauline and ranch hand Charla James to care for the horses daily. Pauline cautioned it will be hard work, but for the right girls, it has a lot of offer. Girls will be assigned a horse and will clean their hooves and stalls--before even putting a saddle on.

"There is a humbleness that comes with equestrian care. It is a quiet confidence and I just think for the rest of their lives they will benefit from it," Pauline said.

The Stotsenbergs are teaming up with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest County to ensure they find the right candidates for the program.

"This is going to be an impactful program for girls, different than any other program here in the Valley," said John Whann, director of program services for the Boys & Girls Clubs.

The program is fully paid. The young women selected will not need to own a horse, riding gear or any equipment.

"All they need to bring with them is a passion," Pauline said.

Those interested in applying for the program can contact John Whann with the Boys & Girls Clubs at 951-696-1526, ext. 105, or via email at johnw@bgcswc.org.


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