Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm is proud to welcome four accomplished individuals to its Board of Trustees: Pat Temple of Newburyport, Cheri Patron of Chelmsford, Kara Johnson of Andover, and Dave Shields of Andover. These new board members bring a wealth of experience and deep passion for the mission of Challenge Unlimited, which has been providing equine-assisted services that promote healing, hope, and joy for more than 40 years.
Each year, Ironstone Farm serves over 1,000 children and adults, including veterans and first responders with PTSD, individuals and families affected by cancer, people in recovery, youth at risk, and those living with physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities. The appointment of these new trustees reflects a continued commitment to advancing the organization’s reach and impact.
Pat Temple, Newburyport
Ms. Temple is a retired real estate development consultant whose career focused on meeting the facility needs of nonprofit organizations, public charter schools, and early education programs. A lifelong volunteer and passionate equestrian, she previously served for 18 years on the Board of the Boston Children’s Chorus, including time as co-chair. She is also an active member of several choirs, including the Boston Pops Gospel Choir.
“I was searching for a volunteer opportunity that would marry my lifelong love of horses with support for individuals facing physical, mental, and emotional challenges,” Temple said. “Challenge Unlimited has provided transformative programs for thousands of clients. I’m so pleased to join this outstanding organization.”
Cheri Patron, Chelmsford
Ms. Patron brings decades of horsemanship and therapeutic riding experience to the board. A PATH-certified rider, trainer, and instructor, she is the founder of the Greener Pastures Therapeutic Riding Program. Her deep personal commitment to helping others is also reflected in her tireless fundraising for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in honor of her two sons, one of whom, Tyler, played a pivotal role in the advancement of CF treatments before his passing in 2019.
“Having run my own therapeutic riding center is how I came to know about Ironstone,” Patron said. “I have a tremendous amount of horse knowledge to share—but mostly, I just want to be part of the Ironstone mission. I miss the magic that comes with it.”
Kara Johnson, Andover
Attorney Kara Johnson is an Andover native, wife, and mother who brings a strong background in advocacy and public service to the board. A graduate of Boston College and Suffolk University Law School, she has worked in victim services and employment law for over two decades. Johnson currently serves on the Waystone Advisory Council and Human Rights Committee and was instrumental in creating the founding board of the Massachusetts Children’s Alliance.
She was introduced to Ironstone Farm through her children’s recreational riding experiences and quickly connected with the mission.
“The mission is unique and touches the lives of so many different populations,” said Johnson. “Plus, Kerri is great! I say that in jest—but it’s true. She was warm, welcoming, and is clearly on the ball, which means I know my time serving as a board member will be productive.”
Dave Shields, Andover
Dave Shields, originally from Andover, earned his economics degree from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, before beginning his career in finance. He now sits as CFO of Ascenta Capital after twenty years in the world of private equity.
Shields attended Ironstone’s Kentucky Derby fundraiser this past May and quotes he was, “completely floored” by what he saw. Dave was struck by the beauty of the property, the authenticity of the working farm, and most importantly, the mission. Ironstone brought him back to his grandparents’ Kentucky farm he frequented as a kid.
“It grounded me in a way I hadn’t felt in years. In a high-pressure career, that kind of calm is rare and deeply needed” Shields states. “While most of my career has been focused in the for-profit private sector, I haven’t been involved in direct philanthropy until now. My connection with Ironstone felt like a meaningful and natural place to begin that journey. It aligns deeply with both my heart and my skills, and I feel fortunate to contribute to something with such purpose,” says Shields.
Dave is looking forward to growing Ironstone into the premier equine therapy and event destination in New England. “I hope to leave behind infrastructure and a long-term vision that future generations can build on or simply enjoy.”
“We are incredibly fortunate to welcome Pat, Cheri, Kara, and Dave to our Board of Trustees,” said Kerri Whalen, Executive Director of Challenge Unlimited. “Each of them brings exceptional professional expertise and deep compassion for the work we do. They’re smart, strategic, and community-minded—and they’re also local, fun, and full of heart. Their leadership will help strengthen the long-term sustainability of Ironstone and ensure our programs continue to thrive and grow.”