Gov. Glenn Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin presented the Spirit of Virginia award to Hope’s Legacy Equine Rescue, a nonprofit in Afton that saves equines from a variety of situations including, but not limited to, abuse, abandonment, neglect and slaughter.
“Horses have a special place in my heart, and the work that animal rescues, like Hope’s Legacy, provide to God’s creatures surely inspires, said Suzanne Youngkin. “It has been an honor meeting Maya and witnessing her care of these beautiful animals and interacting with these beautiful animals. Your selfless work exemplifies the true spirit of Virginia.”
Hope’s Legacy founder and executive director Maya Prouix was thankful for the recognition.
“Hope’s Legacy is dedicated to changing the lives of equines coming from difficult situations, and we know that our work will continue for many years to come,” said Proulx.
The Spirit of Virginia award recognizes unique qualities and standout achievements across the Commonwealth and salutes Virginians for their uncommon contributions in private industries, education, culture, the arts and philanthropy.
The inaugural Spirit of Virginia award was presented to the National Center for Healthy Veterans in Altavista in March, and the second award was presented to Jill’s House in Vienna in May.
Hope’s Legacy takes in rescues throughout the state of Virginia. Hope’s Legacy announced at the event that they will take in their 500th equine rescue this week since the organization’s founding in 2008. They have more than 50 horses and donkeys currently in care. Hope’s Legacy first moved horses onto its current property at Castle Rock Farm in Afton in December 2017.
Gov. Youngkin and the First Lady plan to name three more Spirit of Virginia Award recipients this year.
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Crystal Graham
