Riding For Dreams is a therapeutic riding program located in Southeast North Dakota. Our mission is to provide children with the opportunity to ride horses and experience the freedom and joy that comes with it. We believe that every child should have the chance to pursue their dreams, and we are dedicated to making that a reality through our program.
The Board of Directors
President
Roberta Forward
Board member since 2022, Roberta volunteered first in the summer of 2010, then again became involved when her granddaughter began as a rider in the summer of 2021. She has had horses nearly all of her life and currently owns and raises a few Appaloosas. Roberta resides in Oakes and loves the impact horses have on the growth and wellbeing of their students, volunteers, and community.
Treasurer
Diane Wallin
Diane Wallin and her husband, Gary, had a unique experience with Riding for Dreams. When the program was first forming, they had the privilege of offering their indoor riding arena for its use. They enjoyed that honor for the first three years until Laurie and Rodney Bischof built an arena at their farm south of Lisbon. The horses were stabled there, so it was a good move for Riding for Dreams, but not as much for Diane and Gary as they miss the fun of having students, volunteers, and horses filling their arena. Diane accepted the position of treasurer in 2012. As a retired banker, she enjoys keeping the finances in order. She never ceases to be amazed at the faithful support they receive from generous donors throughout the area. One of her favorite "duties" is sending thank you notes to people, organizations, and agencies far and wide. She also volunteers as a side walker. Diane's heart is filled with beautiful memories of amazing times with their students and their families. It is a joy for her to be part of their lives!
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Board Member
Interim Secretary
Dana Erickson
Dana lives in Gwinner. She is a teacher/librarian at North Sargent School. She has been involved with Riding for Dreams since 2010 when her daughter started with the program. She became a board member to share a parent's perspective. She has seen all the healing powers that horses help with all the riders.
Vice President
Kay Foss
I grew up in the Lisbon area. With 2 older sisters and one younger I Married a local Farmer, Ranch boy. We raised a Son and a Daughter and also have 3 Granddaughters and 1 Great Grandson and 2 Great Granddaughter
I worked at the local Hospital for 25 years as an X-ray and Lab. Technician. I have always loved being outside, so helping with the cow/calf production fit right in. We also were lucky to have 3 sets of younger friends with children, at different times, who were like our own. So we never grew old
without younger children around.
I rode my first horse at age four and was never without one or more horses in my life. Also, a loving Donkey who keeps his eye on me now. I also was given the chance to imprint 3 colts, which is pretty awesome.
I joined the Riding for Dreams organization in 2011, as a volunteer and board member. I have been active as a horse handler, and helping the students was ever needed. As a volunteer, YOU gain so much with the interaction between horse and student. It's something that can’t be seen, it has to be FELT. As a board member, I have been active with our fundraising events, along with being so PROUD of how far we have grown. Without our faithful Volunteers and generous community, Riding For Dreams would and could not exist! JOIN THE GROUP!!
Board Member
Rodney (R.Jay) Bischof
R. Jay lives in Lisbon. Joined the board in August, 2024.
I am the Project Manager | Director of Design Process for an architecture and engineering firm.
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I have a love for Lego® and one can find different Lego® sets on display throughout our house. I especially like the modular building sets.
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My connection to Riding for Dreams is through my mom, Laurie Bischof. She was one of the founding members of the organization and devoted much time, effort, and love to the organization. My goal is to help continue what was started years ago to make the connection between the students and the horses.
Board Member
Lonnie Rotenberger
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Lonnie Rotenberger has been with Riding For Dreams since the beginning as she is one of the three
amazing co-founders, and is our Path Int. Certified Instructor. Lonnie lives in rural Milnor, ND with her
two children and a plethora of animals. She grew up in Garrison, ND and is a full-time nurse. Lonnie has
a full life enjoying reading, trail riding, hiking, gardening, spending time with her kids and animals. She is
a fundamental part of Riding For Dreams with her big heart and passion for teaching students. Lonnie’s
training in healthcare and lifelong horse experience makes her the perfect fit as our main instructor.