Neighbor News
Therapeutic Riding Programs
The leader of a nonprofit organization that uses horseback riding to deliver therapy to children and adults with special needs. All welcome.
Contact
Neil Fater
Challenge Unlimited, Inc.
PHONE: 978-475-4056 Ext. 23
FAX: 978-475-4046
neilfater@challengeunlimited.org
Nonprofit head to speak at Marblehead commission
Ironstone Farm leader will detail therapy programs that use horses
The leader of a nonprofit organization that uses horseback riding to deliver therapy to children and adults with special needs will talk about her work in a meeting with the Disabilities Commission of Marblehead next Thursday, Dec. 10.
Deedee O’Brien, executive director of Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm, will speak about the services offered at the Andover farm, which was founded in 1960 by Richard Donovan. Ironstone serves more than 400 people a week from more than 95 communities in and around Boston, including Marblehead. It is located on Route 133 in Andover, off Interstates 495 and 93.
Ironstone uses the dynamic power of horseback riding and the environment of a farm to combine several therapies into one highly effective experience. Top doctors and medical institutions refer clients to Ironstone because of its success.
Children with special needs learn to walk. Some people who did not speak before begin speaking.
Riding a horse simulates people’s normal walking movements, encouraging strengthened trunk control, improved balance and coordination, normalized muscle tone and increased stamina. Doctors refer a variety of clients, including those on the autism spectrum because it leads to improved social interactions.
Coming to the 19-acre horse farm, rather than an impersonal clinic, makes therapy a “want to” event. About 200 volunteers each week support our programs’ clients.
While serving people with special needs is the primary mission of Ironstone Farm’s nonprofit programs, additional therapeutic programs improve the lives of others, including combat veterans with post-traumatic stress, survivors of cancer, teens at risk and elders with memory issues.
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Earlier this year, as part of a campaign to renovate farm buildings and expand programs, Ironstone Farm opened an Arts & Education Center to serve people with special needs in additional ways.
The Disabilities Commission of Marblehead meets at 4:15 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at the Marblehead Community Center Dining Room, 10 Humphrey St.
