Eva Lund: Eva started Moonshadow Ranch, a small ranch in the heart of Shadow Hills, 3 years ago. Here we are trying to make a difference to both horses and people. As a young girl in Sweden, Eva lead special needs children around the arena at her riding school, to earn riding lessons for herself. (Almost every riding school in Sweden has a special needs riding program). The affect riding had on these kids was truly felt and understood. Last year Eva volunteered at the "Special Olympics" in Hansen Dam and was reminded of her childhood encounter with special kids. Autism awareness is a subject close to her heart, Eva is the god-mother to Jake who is autistic. Jake is a tremendously brave person, with a heart of gold, and a truly pure soul.
Paul Reynolds: Paul is the father of Jake, a 15 year old autistic boy, who seems to inspire all who come to know him. Jake splits his time between California and Western Maryland and is active with the Special Olympics in both states. Paul's inspiration for this event came when he did a "Polar Bear Plunge" in Maryland, to raise funds for the Special Olympics and it is the culmination of years of brainstorming with Eva as to how they could become active in the special needs community. Paul and Eva have been business partners on joint ventures in many varied successful projects and will apply the same principles to Special Spirit. Jake's sisters Shawn and Emily - both college students are also deeply involved in this event.
Mary K Hughes: Mary K started volunteering her time with the Tri-Valley Special Olympic Equestrian program in Chatsworth ten years ago. Her desire to work with horses brought her into contact with many special people who really showed her the meaning of life. Since then she became a Shadow Hills resident bringing her 2 adopted horses to live with her in a wonderful and supportive community of like minded souls. She is at present employed by the Tierra del Sol Foundation in Sunland training disabled adults to feed and care for farm animals. The goal of this training being paid employment and independent living for the adult client.
