The Allegiance Ranch community is made up of incredible people whose stories remind us why this mission matters. Through our Community Spotlight series, we’re honored to introduce the veterans, first responders, volunteers, and supporters who make Allegiance Ranch such a special place.
Today, we’re pleased to introduce Shana Beggan, an Erie resident who gives back in countless ways: from her public service career to the time she spends at the ranch, all driven by her big heart for people and her commitment to doing the right thing.
Shana and her husband, Brendan, are regular volunteers and true helpers. They’re always willing to pitch in wherever they’re needed. Whether it’s grooming horses, scrubbing buckets, or shoring up fences, they’re the kind of people who see what needs to be done and simply get to work.
Shana with Tehya
What initially drew you to Allegiance Ranch?
Allegiance Ranch is the perfect blend of all of my loves: nature and the outdoors, my family history on my Aunt and Uncle’s Arabian farm, helping animals in need of rescue, and providing a safe space for those who serve—to process, find community, and be sincerely thanked for their selfless sacrifice.
My family is filled with those who have devoted their professional careers to service, and from a young age this has been a personal commitment of mine. It is truly the least I can do—and I get to bring this joy to my family, who often join me!
What do you find most meaningful or enjoyable about volunteering at the ranch?
This is a non-profit whose mission I truly believe in and whose community I wholeheartedly support. Unlike so many organizations, the overhead here is low and the resources go directly to the important work at hand. On top of that, the community—both the two-legged and four-legged members—is simply incredible.
Heroes and horses on a working farm… it is hard to think of a more perfect fit for me. In today’s world, staying connected to what truly matters and giving back to the vulnerable, the abused, the neglected, and to those who have served all of us—often at great personal cost—is both an honor and a privilege. Volunteering here feels deeply meaningful.
Do you have a favorite horse?
Now that is just unfair—I have several! But I have to say “the boys”—Louie, Valor, and Blue—and our big girl, Tehya, have truly stolen my heart. These four represent the heart, compassion, character, and strength of the heroes we hope to serve.
Valor and Louie are so spirited and spunky. Valor reminds me so much of my daughter’s German Shepherd—he’s fun, sassy, and incredibly smart. Louie… gosh, Louie is often misunderstood. He can seem like he doesn’t want to be around anyone, but I think he’s just scared. He is incredibly handsome, strong, and fast, and the challenge of helping him know he is safe and loved feels so fitting with our mission.
Blue—I don’t think I’ve ever met a sweeter, more fun, and intuitive male horse. He is strong and he is fun, and well, he is just wonderful. One moment he can be the dirtiest horse in the pasture, and the next he looks like Fabio! These three “boys” melt my heart and constantly compete for the title of “most handsome.”
And then there is Tehya. She is like a quiet warrior. She may be the strongest of all the horses we have the privilege of working with, yet she is also one of the most gentle. Those eyes… they seem so sensitive and intuitive. She doesn’t push or assert herself; she simply stands strong, stoic, kind, and fierce.
What would you tell someone who’s thinking about participating in a program or volunteering at the ranch?
If you want to work with those who are among the most vulnerable and give back to those who have sacrificed for all of us—you have come to the right place. Whether you come for peace and solace as you work with the land and the animals, or for community, laughs, and support, there is a place for you here.
If you’re not yet ready to work with your hands and help directly, please consider making a contribution and directing others this way. This is a cause I believe in from the depths of my heart!
Whether you work with the gardens, the chickens, the minis, the goats, the donkeys, or our magnificent equine healers, this is a working ranch with space for everyone. There is truly a place for every willing heart here.
