Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm is thrilled to announce Andover couple Linda and Larry Ardito as the recipients of this year’s 2023 Spirit of Giving Award. The pair will be honored at Ironstone Farm’s 21st annual Spirit of Giving Gala on Saturday, November 04, 2023, at the Andover Country Club.
The Spirit of Giving Award is a well-deserved recognition for Linda and Larry, who have selflessly dedicated their time and expertise to more than twenty local organizations over forty years.
Linda’s impact radiates through her roles on the boards of the American Textile History Museum, Lawrence History Center, and the Andover Cultural Council, where she fueled historical and educational initiatives across the Merrimack Valley. Her outstanding commitment earned her the esteemed Citizens Who Care Award from the Andover Rotary Club in 2019.
Larry Ardito poses for a picture with Unico the therapy pony. In 2017, UNICO Merrimack Valley awarded the farm with a grant to purchase a new horse, which was named Unico in honor of the club.
Larry’s exceptional contributions garnered him the Citizens Who Care Award in 2023. His impactful efforts span groups such as the American Cancer Society, Caritas Holy Family Hospital Foundation, and the Merrimack Valley chapter of UNICO. His leadership as the president and treasurer of UNICO has generated numerous college scholarships for local Italian Americans.
“I could not think of two more perfect people to receive the Spirit of Giving Award,” said Kerri Whalen, Executive Director of Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm. “Linda and Larry Ardito embody the selfless and generous attitude of helping others without expecting anything in return. Through their acts of kindness, charity, and unwavering support, they epitomize what it means to live in the spirit of generosity and giving.”
Together, their commitment to philanthropy, leadership, and positive change has left an indelible mark on countless lives, including those in the Ironstone Farm community, where they’ve played a vital role for almost two decades. Their generosity has created a brighter future for those in need and ignited support for Ironstone’s mission to improve physical, mental, and cognitive well-being through equine-assisted programs.
“Through their acts of kindness, charity, and unwavering support, they epitomize what it means to live in the spirit of generosity and giving.” – Kerri Whalen
Linda and Larry Ardito at the 2006 Spirit of Giving Gala. The couple have been ardent supporters of Ironstone Farm for over 20 years.
Linda and Larry expressed their gratitude for the honor, stating, “We are excited and humbled to be the 2023 recipients of the Spirit of Giving Award. On November 4, we look forward to joining with friends, family, and community leaders who recognize the importance of supporting the mission of Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm.”
The upcoming gala guarantees an evening of celebration and inspiration, honoring the Ardito’s achievements and raising essential funds for Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm. Sponsorship and other opportunities are open for individuals and businesses wanting to join this exceptional event. For inquiries about the Spirit of Giving Gala or Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm, please contact Kerri Whalen at [email protected].
About Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm: Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being of individuals through therapeutic riding and equine-assisted programs. It serves people with a wide range of disabilities and challenges, uniting a diverse population in an environment that encourages joy and improved quality of life. To learn visit: IronstoneFarm.org