What an incredible Veteran’s Day weekend we had at Ironstone Farm! We hosted amazing groups of volunteers and veterans and collaborated with community friends to honor the selfless service our veterans have given to us and our country. Each day was filled with gratitude to those who have given so much.
THURSDAY
The hard-working employees at Hunneman Commercial Real Estate kicked off the weekend with a productive day of volunteering at the farm. They were an unstoppable force, re-staining nearly 500 ft of railing in our arena and packing the grounds for our Retreat Center’s new fire pit in a single day! We are so grateful for their incredible work and the newly constructed fire pit that will provide our retreat veterans with warmth, camaraderie, and solace for years to come.
FRIDAY
Our veterans program was highlighted in Northshore Magazine! The article explores the personal journey of one of our participants and the powerful impact our equine-assisted services have on veterans living with PTSD.
Thank you to Northshore Magazine for highlighting our inspiring clients and celebrating the strength and resilience of our veterans. To read the full article, purchase a digital copy of the November issue here or a physical copy here.
SATURDAY
We hosted an inspiring weekend retreat for veterans from Home Base Veteran and Family Care. Throughout the weekend, these veterans found solace and support in our program, building trust and easing feelings of anxiety and isolation that come from post-traumatic stress disorder. Together, they experienced the healing power of nature and the deep therapeutic connection that our horses provide. It is an honor to be a part of their healing journey this Veterans Day weekend and every weekend to come.
SUNDAY
Our veterans, staff, and volunteers came out to represent Ironstone Farm during Run for the Troops annual 5k race and dinner! The events raise money for local nonprofits that improve the everyday lives of veterans. We are so grateful to be one of their beneficiaries for the 9th year running! Participants in our weekly veterans program has a blast attending the dinner with our staff members, Dave and Thorsten. Our veterans programs will continue to thrive thanks to the generosity of all who supported Run For The Troops!
Thank you to all the veterans who have come to heal at Ironstone Farm. We are honored to support and serve you and humbled to be trusted with this journey. I hope your Veterans Day weekend was filled with appreciation, honor, and moments of reflection on the incredible sacrifices you’ve made. I hope you felt the warmth of the gratitude and respect that we hold for you all.
Sincerely,
Kerri Whalen
Executive Director
Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm