Our Retreat Center came alive this June, as ten siblings in foster care embarked on a weekend adventure they would never forget. The program was held in partnership with Sibling Connections, a nonprofit working to reunite siblings separated by foster care, and gave brothers and sisters the chance to create lasting memories while staying overnight at Ironstone Farm.
As soon as they arrived, the children were immersed in a world of horses and farm adventure. With our experienced instructors by their side, they enjoyed exciting activities like meeting our horses up close, learning how to take care of them, and even riding them. They also helped with daily barn chores, working together to clean stalls and experiencing the rewards of teamwork.
One child, brimming with happiness, exclaimed how sitting on top of a horse allowed them to, “see across the whole farm.”
Despite the rain, the farm provided a captivating setting for the children to bond with one another, as they collectively embraced the daily routines of farm life. The excitement was palpable on Saturday morning, as they eagerly gathered around the breakfast table at the farm’s Retreat Center. The group chatted away about what their first official day of “life on the farm” would entail. They couldn’t stop laughing and coming up with all sorts of wild ideas.
Throughout the program, the kitchen served as a hub for shared meals and conversations just like this, fostering that sense of togetherness everyone craved.
Three siblings make artwork together during an evening craft activity at Ironstone Farm
The Retreat Center offered everything they needed for a cozy stay, with the back porch becoming a favorite spot for soaking up the warm sun and overlooking the farm.
As the weekend drew to a close, the children were asked to describe their experience in just one word. Their enthusiastic responses ranged from “awesome” and “fantastic” to “fun” and “tremendous.” These sentiments echoed the feelings of the entire Sibling Connections team, who felt grateful for the opportunity to witness such abundant joy among the children.
“Our campers don’t get many opportunities to be just kids,” said one of the Sibling Connections volunteers staying with the group overnight. “Ironstone provided a safe and exciting environment for them to learn about horses and farm life, while still getting plenty of chances to play and grow together.”
We are so grateful to The Mabel Louise Riley Foundation, whose generous grant made this weekend possible. Thank you for helping provide this much-needed weekend of connection, relaxation, and joy to our participants.