Dear friends,
As we move into 2024, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable work we have done together over this past year, and I am filled with immense gratitude and heartfelt appreciation for YOU, our community of believers.
In today’s world, the need for connection and moments of hope, healing, and joy has never been more apparent. As a community, we understood the pressing need to prioritize mental health and wellness, creating space that cultivated a profound sense of belonging and resilience, for those in need.
We have been steadfast in our mission to bring equine-assisted hope and healing to the most vulnerable and underserved members of our community. Your generosity has helped expand our equine-assisted therapeutic programs to youth at-risk and people in recovery, addressing a community need while recognizing the transformative power of the human-animal bond in fostering resilience, personal growth, and a path to sustained recovery.
Together, we have cultivated a haven where healing and hope intertwine, and it is remarkable to witness the tangible differences we’ve made guided by the graceful presence of our equine partners in the lives of those we serve.
Thanks to YOU our lessons and programs remain accessible to everyone regardless of financial status. In 2023, we served 986 total clients through our therapeutic riding and equine-assisted programs offering 8,836 hours of therapeutic services. Our incredible team of 172 volunteers saved us over $150,000 in labor costs.
Never cease to believe in the transformative power of human (and horse) connection and the crucial importance of nurturing ourselves and each other.
As we approach 2024, let’s continue to unite as a community of believers and embrace the profound impact of connection. Let’s prioritize mental health as an essential requirement for our well-being. Let’s stand strong together in our commitment to inspire positive change in the lives that are yet to be touched, and build a community of support and healing to people and families in need.
Here’s to knowing that WE are stronger together.
Here’s to heading into 2024 filled with gratitude and humility. Thank you for being a part of 2023 and for your continued support and commitment to our incredible community.
With a full and grateful heart,
Kerri Whalen
Executive Director
Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm