We Remember Al Fund

Established in December 2005 following a community horse show, the We Remember Al Fund is a donor advised fund created by Tarina Rose and Tim Greenleaf and reflects the generosity and compassion of Marion County’s equestrian community.

In August 2005, an electrical malfunction caused a fire at the Jon and Robin Townsend residence outside Morral. The fire claimed the lives of the family’s two horses and three ponies—Rodney, Chucky, Flash, Snickers and Al—beloved members of the Townsend family. Their loss was especially difficult for sons Jon and Hayden, who were active members of the Dusty Tails 4-H Club.

In response, members of the equestrian community came together to organize the “We Remember Al” horse show at the Marion County Fairgrounds which raised approximately $12,500. The proceeds were used to both support the Townsend family and establish this endowment through Marion Community Foundation to help young horse enthusiasts.

The event drew tremendous community support. American Legion Post 584 served as the primary sponsor with approximately 47 additional sponsors. The show attracted a large equestrian audience, with longtime horse enthusiast Jane Watts describing the competition as being of “Quarter Horse Congress quality.”

The generosity continued when Grove City horse breeder Gary Northup donated two quarter horses to the Townsend boys. Northup, who had regularly donated horses for the Ohio 4-H Celebration of Youth, said he understood what it would mean to lose horses in such a tragic way.

Jon named his new horse Rally in memory of Rodney and Al. The name combines the names of his former horse and the beloved pony—a touching tribute to the animals that had been his best friends.

Today, the fund continues that spirit of generosity by supporting young people involved in the Dusty Tails 4-H Club and helping encourage the next generation of horse enthusiasts. It has made annual grants in support of the 4-H Club for more than a decade.