The Roll Call Foundation

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Don Barbiea, US Air Force Retired and is the Founder. He resides in Louisville, Kentucky

Jim Webb, US Marine Veteran and a Co-Founder. He resides in Louisville, Kentucky

David Naranjo, US Army Veteran and a Co-Founder. He resides in Fort Worth, Texas

It all started in different corners of the United States, with three disabled veterans named Don Barbiea, Jim Webb, and David Naranjo were living their lives with a shared purpose of helping others. From their respective cities of Louisville, Kentucky, and Dallas Fort Worth, Texas, these remarkable individuals harbored a common passion for horses, special children with needs, and veterans with disabilities.

Fate brought them together when they learned about the US Army's Fort Sill Artillery Half Section in Lawton, Oklahoma retiring horses where David had served in the Army. Inspired by the idea of honoring these noble animals and channeling their love for horses towards a larger cause, Don, Jim, and David decided to adopt two of them upon their retirement, Major Generals Baxter and Mario both military working equine.

Their vision was not limited to merely enjoying the companionship of these horses, but rather to leverage their presence for the betterment of others. Thus, The Roll Call Foundation was born.

With unwavering determination, the three veterans embarked on a journey to create a nonprofit organization that would utilize the therapeutic power of horses to benefit children and individuals with disabilities. By combining their skills, resources, and heartfelt dedication, they laid the foundation for a remarkable initiative.

The Roll Call Foundation soon became a beacon of hope and a sanctuary for those seeking solace and healing. Through equine-assisted therapy programs, the organization provided a safe space for children and individuals with disabilities to interact with their newfound four-legged friends. The gentle nature of the horses, coupled with the expertise of trained professionals, helped foster physical, emotional, and cognitive development.

Don, Jim, and David's unwavering commitment to their cause attracted the attention of like-minded individuals who shared their passion. Volunteers flocked to The Roll Call Foundation, offering their time and expertise to support the various programs and initiatives. Together, this dedicated team of individuals worked tirelessly to create a nurturing environment where compassion, understanding, and growth flourished.

The impact of their efforts was profound. Children with disabilities found newfound confidence and independence as they learned to ride and care for the horses. The therapeutic bond formed between human and animal became a catalyst for personal growth, inspiring hope and resilience in the face of adversity. The Foundation now has a new horse in the program, a registered American Paint Horse, Cruisin for Fillies aka " Chief Mack" in Louisville Kentucky.

In August 2023 a new mission was presented and accepted by the Founders, add a new chapter of AMBUCS in Louisville Kentucky. Now we are proudly part of their national organization. We are also now Twin Spires AMBUCS, Louisville. Providing individuals with disabilities an adaptive bike called and AmTryke. Each one custom built for their needs and abilities. We can't wait to the roads these bikes take us.

Word of The Roll Call Foundation's transformative work spread throughout the nation, garnering recognition and support from individuals, organizations, and even local government bodies. This newfound recognition enabled the foundation to expand its reach, providing equine-assisted therapy to an ever-growing number of individuals in need.

The story of Don, Jim, David, and The Roll Call Foundation serves as a testament to the power of compassion and the indomitable spirit of veterans. Through their shared passion for horses and their unwavering dedication to helping others, these remarkable individuals transformed their own lives and the lives of countless others.