Freda Jones named US LBM 2023 Humanitarian Award winner
US LBM announced that Freda Jones, market finance manager, has been named as its 2023 Humanitarian Award Recipient.
Jones is being recognized for community involvement and charitable work. As part of this recognition, the US LBM Foundation has awarded a $10,000 grant to Special Equestrians on behalf of Jones.
Special Equestrians is a charitable organization in Fort Myers, Florida that provides equine-assisted services to children and adults with disabilities, including veterans and people with cognitive and physical disabilities.
Jones has volunteered more than 500 hours with the organization as a certified therapeutic riding instructor. In addition to providing therapy, Jones serves as a member of the organization’s executive board and as treasurer, leading its fundraising efforts.
"People often ask why I volunteer so much time, and I tell them Special Equestrians is an amazing program that makes miracles happen and changes the lives of our clients and their families," Jones said. "Hearing stories and seeing firsthand the improvements therapeutic horseback riding provides our clients – physically, developmentally, and for their self-esteem – are why I volunteer."
Experiencing the motion of a horse is therapeutic because horseback riding rhythmically moves the rider’s body in a manner similar to the human gait. Riders with physical disabilities regularly show improvement in flexibility, balance, and muscle strength.
"Special Equestrians is an all-volunteer, self-administered board and 100% of all donations go directly to our program," Jones noted. "US LBM’s donation will be used for rider scholarships, horse care, and a special project for the facility. We are very blessed and grateful for the donation."
To learn more about Special Equestrians visit www.specialequestrians.net/.
"Freda exemplifies the best of US through the selfless work she does to improve the lives of children, veterans, and those with disabilities," said US LBM President and CEO L.T. Gibson. "Supporting the work Freda does with Special Equestrians is why we created the US LBM Foundation, to reach into our local communities and make a positive difference in the lives of those in need."
Based in Atlanta, Georgia, US LBM is a leading distributor of building materials with more than 400 locations across the country.
