Windrush Farm Therapeutic Equitation, Inc.
"Changing lives, one stride at a time, one smile at a time."
November 1, 2009
Dear Windrush Families and Friends:
It’s been a challenging year for all. But thanks to the many kind people who reached deep into their pockets regardless, Windrush Farm has met our Capital Campaign goal. I’m happy to report we’ve secured our land! We’re breathing a sigh of relief that we will always have a site from which to improve the lives of children and adults with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities. Their challenges will persist long after the economy recovers.
However, land alone won’t give these deserving people greater physical function, social connection and joy. That’s why we’re appealing to you again, this time to help sustain our Annual Fund.
Which programs would you eliminate if you were forced to make the choice? Which participants would you turn away for inability to pay?
- 2009 marks the 25th year we’ve opened up a world of possibility for visually impaired children and teens from the acclaimed Perkins School for the Blind. From grooming and tacking horses to riding skills, the students are often surprised at what they can achieve. The confidence they develop doesn’t end at the stable; it empowers their ability to navigate a sighted world with low or no vision.
- Then there are children like Katie, who is severely delayed and nonverbal. Her mom says that when she rides Judge, a gentle gelding, “magic occurs. Katie becomes in tune with the world.” Windrush has given her mother a respite, too, from the nonstop demands of caring for a cherished little girl with such enormous needs. “On many occasions, I am told by staff, ‘Go relax for an hour while we enjoy Katie.’ In the family waiting room, I watch as she sits tall on Judge and seems to melt into calmness. I calm down too as the other parents and I laugh, listen to one another and offer encouragement.”
- Experts say the way we treat animals often transfers to the way we treat fellow humans. Humane education—instilling respect for animals—is an integral facet of our summer camp for “at risk” youth from disadvantaged neighborhoods in Lynn, Lawrence and Dorchester. The kids think it’s a week of fun, and it is. But we know that as they ride and care for horses together, they’re also developing problem-solving skills, cooperation and self-esteem, along with a greater understanding of and compassion for animals.
- Riding improves the coordination, balance and stamina of individuals with physical disabilities, including adults with Multiple Sclerosis like Jackie. She and other women with MS say that after an hour on their horses, their movement for the rest of the day is greatly eased—and sharing this physical and social activity is a welcome break in their week. As Jackie writes, “Being a mom is hard enough when you are well. Think of living with MS."
Our annual fund goal this year is $180,000. Please help ensure our beautiful land remains filled with success stories like these by making as generous a gift as possible.
With gratitude for your ongoing support,
Amanda Carey Hogan
Executive Director
P.S. It costs $2,281 a day, 365 days a year to provide our therapeutic programs. Your Annual Fund gift will help us continue making a life-enhancing—and in some cases, life-altering—difference to children and adults facing challenges.