GREENFIELD — Two core staff members worked their final day at Agape East this week, which leaves the local equestrian-based nonprofit searching for their replacements as the spring season approaches.
Executive Director Stephanie Amick said she plans to post the job openings by next week in hopes of having the nonprofit back to full staff by June 1.
Agape, which provides therapeutic horse riding services for children and adults with disabilities, will still open its spring season April 9.
The organization has two locations — its headquarters in Cicero and a satellite location called Agape East at 531 W. CR 100S in Greenfield.
Friday marks the last day at work for the East Site’s volunteer coordinator, Ainsley Flannery.
It’s also the last day for East Site manager Jennifer Wright.
Amick said she wishes the outgoing staff members well in their new endeavors.
“Though their absence at the barn will certainly be felt, we recognize the best way to honor their hard work is to continue to serve our riders and partners and volunteers well,” said the director.
“We recognize that the departure of multiple staff may raise some concerns because you care about Agape. Some of the changes are due to a shift in our strategic plans that will allow us to continue to serve our riders and partners with excellence into the future,” she said.
Agape’s outgoing staff members could not be reached for comment by press time Thursday.
Amick is now focused on the future and plans to post the job openings by next week.
“Our hope and intention is to fully be back open at full capacity the first of June,” said the director, although she expects filling the vacancies will take some time.
“What we do is such a niche. There’s a limited amount of people who have the experience and the certification to be able to do the very impactful work we do, so it will take us a little bit of time to find the right people. We have some staff to be able to help in the interim,” she said.
There’s already one new face at Agape — Ian Senesac — who started work as the equine manager at both Agape locations Feb. 19.
The experienced equestrian has an extensive background in working with horses. He holds degrees in Wilderness Horsemanship and Farrier Science/Business, and has worked at several guest ranches in Colorado.
“We’re delighted to have him,” said Amick.
She encouraged those who enjoy working with horses and people with disabilities, or those who enjoy coordinating volunteers, to check out upcoming job postings at AgapeRiding.org.
