Stable Friendships Foundation Newsletter

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Friendships Foundation — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 17:49:39 +0000

💫 A Wish Come True | Meet Molly, OT 👋🏻 | 🐬 Learning Beyond the Barn

Stable Surprise : A Gift That Changes Everything 💛

Sometimes the most meaningful moments at the farm are the ones we didn’t plan for.

This spring, the incredible owners of HazelNut Farm, Lynn and Pat, gifted us something truly special—a dedicated treatment “clubhouse” space for our participants and team.

Not only did they offer the space, they went a step further insulating it and preparing it so we could move in and begin using it right away.

It’s hard to put into words what this means for our program. A space like this allows us to create a more comfortable, supportive environment for therapy one that better meets the needs of the individuals and families we serve.

But more than that, it’s a reflection of something bigger: a community that believes in this work and shows up in ways that truly make a difference.

Lynn and Pat, thank you. Your generosity has created something that will support so many meaningful moments in the months and years ahead. ♥️

Our News

💫A Wish Come True At The Farm

This month, we were deeply honored to partner with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to help bring Madeleine’s vision to life.

Her wish was to have her Quinceañera photos taken with horses and to experience the magic of being with them in such a meaningful moment. Dressed in her beautiful gown, Madeleine spent time connecting, celebrating, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

It was one of those days that reminded us why this work matters, not just for the milestones, but for the feeling of being seen, supported, and surrounded by something bigger.

“Truly grateful. You brought Madelin’s vision to life, creating a day that will shine through any difficulties. I love that she wants to stay connected and volunteer. It speaks volumes about your experience. What a special team and community you have.”
— Abigail Jones, Philanthropy Director, Make-A-Wish Connecticut

A heartfelt thank you to our incredibly gifted and generous friend Kristen Vallejo for capturing this day so beautifully. Check out her work here.

👋🏻 Meet Molly, OT

We’re so excited to officially welcome Molly to Stable Friendships as our newest occupational therapist, though in many ways, she’s been part of this community for years.

Molly and Melissa have known each other long before Molly became an OT, making this a full-circle moment rooted in shared values and a deep love for this work.

Her path to occupational therapy began with horses. After riding from a young age, she later recognized how much environment shaped her own learning experience. When she discovered hippotherapy, everything clicked.

“I believe in the magic,” Molly shares, “and I believe in the science. I think the two go hand in hand.”

Molly brings both to her sessions—creating spaces that feel like play, while being grounded in thoughtful, evidence-based care. Prior to becoming an OT, she worked as a research associate at Burke Neurological Institute, where she saw firsthand how research shapes meaningful intervention.

What stands out most about Molly is her presence. She describes herself as someone who nurtures, who finds beauty in the small things, and who values connection across all walks of life. It’s something you feel immediately when you meet her.

When asked about her first impression of the farm, she shared one word: ease.

And really—what’s more important for a nervous system than that?

We feel so lucky to have her here.

🐬Learning Beyond the Barn

While in Florida, our very own board member and speech-language pathologist, Jennifer Gressin-Rybalov, had the opportunity to visit Island Dolphin Care to learn more about their work.

She was struck by the heart of the organization, a small but deeply dedicated team creating meaningful experiences through their partnership with dolphins. It’s always inspiring to see how connection, care, and intention show up across different environments and species.

Moments like this remind us that while our work is rooted with horses, the larger mission of supporting regulation, communication, and connection extends far beyond the barn.

If you happen to find yourself in the area, we encourage you to stop by and experience their work and let them know your friends at Stable Friendships Foundation sent you 💛

Ways to Support Us

Spread the Word: Help us raise awareness about the healing power of horsemanship by sharing our mission with your friends, family, and social media networks. GUESS WHAT?! You can use the icons at the top of this email to seamlessly share our content via email, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Facebook. Together, let’s amplify our message and make a lasting difference!

Volunteer with us : We are always looking for dedicated volunteers to join our team. Whether you have experience with horses or prefer to support us in other ways, there are positions available for everyone

Online Donations: Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

Saddle Up with Our Merchandise : We’re thrilled to offer Stable Friendships Foundation merchandise through Bonfire! Each purchase supports our mission, with proceeds going directly back to our program. Shop now and wear you support with pride!

Answer:
True, but not in the way you may think.
Horses do have thicker skin than humans but that doesn’t mean they feel less. In fact, they are incredibly sensitive animals, able to detect even the smallest touch, like a fly landing on their body.

Tired of news that feels like noise?

Every day, 4.5 million readers turn to 1440 for their factual news fix. We sift through 100+ sources to bring you a complete summary of politics, global events, business, and culture — all in a brief 5-minute email. No spin. No slant. Just clarity.

Join for free today!

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Friendships Foundation — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 21:52:44 +0000

✨Making Wishes Come True | Meet Melissa

Stable Smiles: Incase you Missed it!

In case you missed it, our paddock went red.

In honor of National Wear Red Day, Stable Friendships Foundation stood alongside our co-founder, Jessica, to help raise awareness for Marfan syndrome and the importance of early detection of aortic aneurysms.

As part of this, we shared a powerful video from the American Heart Association—because education and awareness are how change begins.

This cause is deeply personal, and it was meaningful to see our community come together in support.

🎥 If you didn’t catch it, take a moment to watch the video below and join us in spreading awareness.

Our News

✨ A Wish Come True

Earlier this month, we had the honor of partnering with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to help bring one very special vision to life.

Madeline’s wish was to have her Quinceañera photos taken with horses—something she had dreamed of, down to the details. Her vision included not only being surrounded by the horses, but stepping into the moment fully… even getting on her horse in her beautiful gown.

And thanks to the care, collaboration, and heart of our team, that vision became a reality.

It was more than just a photoshoot. It was a day filled with presence, joy, and the kind of moments that stay with you.

Abby Jones, Philanthropy Director, shared this with us after the experience:
“Truly grateful. You brought Madeline’s vision to life, creating a day that will shine through any difficulties. I love that she wants to stay connected and volunteer. It speaks volumes about your experience. What a special team and community you have.”

We couldn’t be more honored to have been part of Madeline’s story—and to have shared the paddock with her in such a meaningful way.

📸 Stay tuned… we can’t wait to share the final photos, done by our amazing volunteer @kristen_vallejo_photography

Stay tuned to see the final photos!!

🐴 Meet Melissa

What inspired you to become a physical therapist?
I’ve always been drawn to helping people, in a lot of different ways. But honestly, I became a PT a bit by accident. I was in school to be an LPN and passed out while trying to put an IV in a patient. The instructor sent me down to the PT department to lie down… and I never wanted to go back upstairs.

How did horses become part of your work?
That part didn’t come from a plan. I had heard of hippotherapy, but it wasn’t until graduate school—during an internship at Special Strides in Monroe, NJ—that everything clicked. Once I experienced it, I never looked back.

What led you to create Stable Friendships Foundation?
Since 2005, I’ve felt the tension of trying to merge a true medical model into the equestrian world. It hasn’t always been easy to find a space where those two could fully align. After meeting Jessica and Laura, it became clear that we needed to build something of our own—something that reflected our shared vision and honored the depth of this work. Stable Friendships Foundation grew from that place.

What would you want someone new to know before coming to the farm?
You don’t need experience with horses. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just have to be willing to show up.

Ways to Support Us

Online Donations: Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

Answer: B — Changes in daylight ☀️
Horses actually shed based on daylight, not temperature. As the days get longer, their bodies receive signals to start shedding—spring weather just happens to show up around the same time.

Feeling off lately? It could be your hormones.

Allara helps women understand the root cause of their hormonal or metabolic symptoms with a comprehensive care team that combines expert medical and nutrition guidance. Whether you're managing PCOS, fertility challenges, perimenopause, thyroid conditions, or unexplained symptoms, you'll get a personalized care plan backed by advanced diagnostic testing and ongoing support. This isn't about quick fixes. It's about getting clarity and feeling like yourself again, with care that's accessible virtually and covered by insurance.

Get started with Allara

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Friendships Foundation — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 17:25:53 +0000

✨Barn to Classroom | Barn Face Lift | 🌟 Education Avenues

Stable Smiles: Reminder of the Sunny Days ☀️

On days when the air feels a little colder and the barn feels a little quieter, we like to remember this: warmer days always return.

This month’s Stable Smiles is a gentle reminder of summer—Sunny splashing happily in the water, fully present, unbothered, and doing what horses do best when they feel safe and content.

Sometimes joy doesn’t need an explanation.
Sometimes it just looks like a horse, a sunny day, and a moment worth holding onto.

Our News

🎓 From Barn to Classroom

One of our cofounders recently returned to her alma mater, Sacred Heart University, to speak with students about hippotherapy and the powerful role horses play in supporting physical, emotional, and nervous system regulation.

Sharing this work in academic spaces matters. It helps future professionals understand that healing doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens through relationship, movement, and trust. Horses offer a kind of feedback that can’t be taught in a textbook, and these conversations help bridge theory with lived experience.

We’re deeply grateful for opportunities like this—to honor where we come from, and to continue shaping where this work is going.

📸 Pictured here: Our Current Barn awaiting its Facelift !

🌸Barn Updates This Spring

This spring, our barn will be going through a few meaningful upgrades—all with the goal of better supporting our participants, therapists, and horses.

We’ll be improving our electrical infrastructure so we can install more appropriate climate control equipment, helping the barn stay more comfortable through seasonal extremes.

We’re also exploring ways to thoughtfully transform part of the space into a designated treatment area—one with fewer hay and shavings—so therapy sessions can happen in an environment that better supports focus, accessibility, and comfort.

As always, these changes are guided by one question: How can we create a space that feels safe, supportive, and functional for everyone who enters the barn? We’re excited to bring you along as these plans unfold.

🎉Learn More from the Warmth of Home

With this stretch of arctic air keeping many of us indoors, we wanted to offer an easy way to stay connected to the barn.

We’ve gathered a small collection of resources that share:

What hippotherapy is (and what it isn’t)
The participants we serve
The horses we thoughtfully partner with in sessions

More resources will be added over time as this library grows. And if there’s something you’d like to learn more about—or something you’d love to see included—please don’t hesitate to let us know.

Whether you’re a parent, a professional, or simply curious, these materials offer a deeper look into how movement, relationship, and environment come together at Stable Friendships.

Explore Our Hippotherapy Resource Hub

Ways to Support Us

Online Donations: Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

Click the Ad Below : When you click the link below, we receive $2.50 per click, which helps support our work. Thank you for taking a moment to help—it truly adds up.

Tutoring for the nights you're out of patience

You've already explained it three times. You're tired. They're tired.

But homework still isn't done and patience isn't magically refilling.

Acadia Learning gives families unlimited tutoring for $40/month:

Someone else steps in when you're tapped out
No more digging for energy you don't have
Just be their parent, not their tutor

Trusted by 10,000+ families who know it's okay to tap out.

Book your first session by the end of the month and get 50% off your first month.

Book your first session

Answer:C. Around 73,000 — according to federal estimates of federally protected wild horses and burros on Bureau of Land Management lands.

Learn More & Support:
Many advocacy groups are working to protect these iconic animals, promote humane management, and encourage adoption so more wild horses can find safe, loving homes. Return to Freedom Sanctuary

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Friendships Foundation — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:36:50 +0000

✨Gratitude | Reflection | 🌟 Looking Forward

Because of You 💛

Founders Letter

As this extraordinary year draws to a close, our hearts swell with gratitude as we pause to reflect on everything we’ve built together within the Stable Friendships community.

This year has asked so much of our resilience, our faith, and our presence. And every single time, we have watched our incredible herd—both the people and the horses—rise to those moments with such profound and quiet grace.

To the families who have placed your trust in us: Thank you, from the bottom of our heart. It is a genuine privilege to walk alongside you, even when the path toward healing felt long or uncertain. Thank you for allowing us, and our horses, to be a small part of your journey of growth, courage, and true connection.

To our selfless volunteers: You are truly the steady heartbeat of Stable Friendships. Your consistent dedication and endless compassion are what make this healing work possible, day after day. You show up in every kind of weather, with open hands and an open heart, and we are personally, endlessly thankful for your devotion.

To our donors and supporters: We want you to know how deeply your belief in our mission is felt here. Because of your incredible generosity, we are empowered to say “yes” more often—to more families, to more horses, and to opportunities that widen the door to healing. Your gifts create tangible, life-changing impact, and we do not take that lightly.

And to our majestic horses—our greatest teachers and healers: We remain completely in awe of the simple, honest way you meet every person exactly where they are. You are a daily reminder that life doesn't need to be rushed or fixed. Sometimes, all it truly needs is space, safety, and connection.

Stable Friendships is built on a truth we profoundly believe in: that healing unfolds in relationships. This year, that truth has been reaffirmed in countless, beautiful ways.

As we look toward the future, we carry forward an immense sense of purpose, boundless hope, and deepest gratitude. Thank you for being part of this community. Thank you for being part of our herd.

With our heartfelt appreciation,

Jessica Falco, Laura Merino and Melissa Jarzynski

Ways to Support Us

Spread the Word: Share our mission and the healing power of horsemanship with your community. A simple share helps our message travel farther.

Volunteer with us : From horse care to behind-the-scenes support, there’s a place for everyone in our herd.

Online Donations: Your generosity helps us continue offering accessible, equine-assisted therapy to individuals and families.

Saddle Up with Our Merchandise : Wear your support with pride—each Bonfire purchase directly supports our programs.

Banish bad ads for good

Google AdSense's Auto ads lets you designate ad-free zones, giving you full control over your site’s layout and ensuring a seamless experience for your visitors. You decide what matters to your users and maintain your site's aesthetic. Google AdSense helps you balance earning with user experience, making it the better way to earn.

Take control of your ads

When you click this link, it may provide a small amount of support to Stable Friendships Foundation—at no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping us sustain this work.

Answer: True !
Research shows horses can recognize familiar humans and may show synchronized physiological responses with people they feel safe with.

📣 We did this together — $18,947 raised for therapy, horses, and families.

Stable Friendships Foundation — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 18:28:37 +0000

🎉 THANK YOU!!!!

We Did It — And Then Some

This Giving Tuesday, thanks to you, our community came together in the most beautiful way.

Together, we raised $18,947 — exceeding our goal and setting a new record for Stable Friendships Foundation.

This generosity directly fuels therapy sessions for children and adults, supports the care of our incredible horses, and keeps our programs accessible for the families who need us most.

But when we look at this number, we don’t just see a total —
We see brave first steps taken.
We see quiet confidence growing in the paddock.
We see volunteers forming friendships that change lives.
We see horses doing what they do best — holding space for healing and growth.

This collage tells the real story: joy, connection, and possibility in motion.

From the deepest part of our hearts— thank you for believing in this mission, for showing up, and for helping us expand what’s possible.

Our herd is stronger than ever because of you.

With Endless Gratitude,

🩵 The Stable Friendships Family

💛 Want to Stay Connected?

There’s always room for more ways to be part of this work:

Follow along on social for daily moments from the barn
Share our newsletter with someone who loves horses or believes in accessible therapy
Leave a Google review to help more families find us
Join our monthly herd of sustaining supporters

💕 Explore ways to support here 💕

✨Giving Tuesday Update : We are just getting started!

Stable Friendships Foundation — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 17:22:09 +0000

We’re already on the move — thank you!

This Giving Tuesday, the Stable Friendships herd has come together in such a beautiful way already.

💙 $2,563 raised so far
💛 $15 generated through our newsletter sponsor clicks

Every dollar supports therapy sessions that bring confidence, regulation, movement, and connection to children and adults through our horses.

Our Giving Tuesday goal: $15,000
We still have a way to go — and every gift matters.

If our work has touched your heart, today is the day to join us.

Every contribution fuels therapy sessions, supports our horses, and expands what’s possible for our families.
👉 Donate here: https://stablefriendshipsfoundation.charityproud.org/Donate/Index/40865

Your voice expands our reach.

Text a friend the link
Share our Giving Tuesday post on social media
Forward this email to someone who loves horses or believes in accessible therapy

👉 Share our Campaign: https://stablefriendshipsfoundation.charityproud.org/Donate/MiniCampaign/40865

👉 Share our Campaign on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/linking/fundraiser?fundraiser_id=1522400525543723&source_name=SHARE_LINK_Q_qPBQEUo7p6axnu4DKCCEAuXMIkiizF46GSFPM0ov9wCFG0f6OL8LN-wNY

👏🏻 Leave a Google Review

Your kind words help families find us and understand the heart behind our work.
👉 Leave a Review:
https://g.page/r/CVu01sioiCqSEB0/review

A like, share, or tag boosts our reach more than you know.
👉 Follow here:
Instagram
Facebook

A generous sponsor is supporting this issue of our newsletter.
For every ad click, SFF receives $1.30—a simple, free way to help us get closer to our goal!

👉 Click the ad below to support at no cost to you.

Prepare your pet for the unexpected

Accidents and illnesses happen when you least expect them. Pet insurance makes sure you’re prepared, with coverage for emergencies, chronic conditions, and wellness visits. Enroll today and give your pet the care they deserve.

Compare plans

No matter how you show up today — giving, sharing, or cheering us on — please know: you are part of this impact.

This work has always been about connection… between people, horses, and a community that believes healing should be accessible to all.

With so much gratitude,
The Stable Friendships Foundation Team
🤍🐴

✨Tomorrow’s the Day — Join Our Herd for Giving Tuesday 🤍

Stable Friendships Foundation — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:02:45 +0000

Hello SFF Community,

Tomorrow is Giving Tuesday, and our whole herd is coming together with one powerful goal:

$15,000 to support life-changing therapy sessions at Stable Friendships Foundation

Every session at our barn is made possible by the partnership between compassionate therapists and incredible horses. This work helps children and adults build confidence, connection, strength, communication, and emotional regulation—often in ways that simply aren’t possible inside a traditional clinic.

When you support SFF, you’re fueling:

Direct therapy sessions for families in need
Care for our horses who carry this work forward every day
Access to services regardless of financial circumstances

This Giving Tuesday is about opening doors to possibility — one session, one child, one family at a time.

💙 1. Donate to our Giving Tuesday Campaign

Your share introduces us to new hearts and new supporters.
👉 Share the newsletter: https://stablefriendshipsfoundation.beehiiv.com

💙 3. Leave a Google Review

Your kind words help families find us and understand the heart behind our work.
👉 Leave a Review:
https://g.page/r/CVu01sioiCqSEB0/review

A like, share, or tag boosts our reach more than you know.
👉 Follow here:
Instagram
Facebook

💙 5. Support Us by Clicking Our Sponsor Ad

A generous sponsor is supporting this issue of our newsletter.
For every ad click, SFF receives $1.50—a simple, free way to help us get closer to our goal!

👉 Click the ad below to support at no cost to you.

Find inner peace at the piano with flowkey

Learn to play the songs that make you happy – whatever your level. flowkey gives you all you need to learn at your own pace: step-by-step courses, interactive practice tools, instant feedback, and thousands of beautiful pieces from all genres.

Start learning today

Together, We Make This Possible

Stable Friendships Foundation exists because of people like you — people who believe in connection, kindness, and the quiet power of partnership between horses and humans.

Thank you for being part of this mission.
Tomorrow we rally the herd — and we can’t wait to share what unfolds.

With so much gratitude,
The Stable Friendships Foundation Team
🤍🐴

✨Let’s Rally the Herd—Giving Tuesday Is Almost Here! 🐴

Stable Friendships Foundation — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 17:55:08 +0000

Hello SFF Community,

The barn is buzzing with possibility, and we’re reaching for our biggest Giving Tuesday goal yet—$15,000 to support therapy sessions, care for our herd, and keep our programs accessible to all.

Your support today—big or small—moves this mission forward in such a meaningful way.

Below are easy ways you can help us make a powerful impact:

💙 1. Donate to our Giving Tuesday Campaign

Your share introduces us to new hearts and new supporters.
👉 Share the newsletter: https://stablefriendshipsfoundation.beehiiv.com

💙 3. Leave a Google Review

Your kind words help families find us and understand the heart behind our work.
👉 Leave a Review:
https://g.page/r/CVu01sioiCqSEB0/review

A like, share, or tag boosts our reach more than you know.
👉 Follow here:
Instagram
Facebook

💙 5. Support Us by Clicking Our Sponsor Ad

A generous sponsor is supporting this issue of our newsletter.
For every ad click, SFF receives $1.50—a simple, free way to help us get closer to our goal!

👉 Click the ad below to support at no cost to you.

Find inner peace at the piano with flowkey

Start learning today

Thank you for being part of this incredible herd. Whether you’re donating, sharing, reviewing, or simply cheering us on, you’re helping make therapy more accessible and helping our horses continue their important work.

With deep gratitude,
The Stable Friendships Foundation Team
🤍🐴

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Friendships Foundation — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 18:01:12 +0000

✨Annual Report | Giving Tuesday | 🐴 Your Impact at the Barn

Stable Smiles:A Year of Connection & Impact

As we step into this season of gratitude, one thing shines above all: you make this place what it is.

Every moment of connection, every breakthrough in the saddle, every deep breath taken beside a horse — you’ve been part of it. This year, we’ve watched riders grow braver, families feel more supported, and our herd quietly hold space for it all.

This month, we’re celebrating what we’ve built together and looking ahead to how we can open the barn doors to even more families in 2025.

Our News

✨Our Annual Report Is Here !

We are so proud to share our Stable Friendships Foundation Annual Report. It holds the heart of this past year at the farm — from scholarship-supported sessions to program milestones, from horse care to heartfelt moments of connection.

Inside, you’ll find:

A beautiful two-page feature story
A volunteer spotlight
Photos of our herd
Program highlights and key numbers
A clear financial snapshot

👉 Read the Annual Report:
Annual Report

Thank you for helping create a barn where children, adults, and families feel supported, seen, and welcomed just as they are.

❤️ All of This is Possible Because of You! ❤️

Giving Tuesday: Support Life - Changing Connections

This year, we’re working toward a meaningful Giving Tuesday goal:
$15,000 to fund therapy scholarships and support the care of our therapy horses.

Your support helps families overcome financial barriers so their loved ones can continue receiving the care they need — and the connection they deserve.

Every week, we hear things like:

This is what your support helps create.

👉 Give to Our Giving Tuesday Campaign:
Campaign Link

🎉 Your Giving Tuesday Toolkit

Here are simple, powerful ways you can help us create a ripple of impact this Giving Tuesday:

1. Forward this email

A quick forward to a friend or family member helps more people discover our mission.

Click “View Online” at the top or bottom → copy the link → share it on social media or in a group chat.

3. Make a Giving Tuesday gift (if it feels right)

Every contribution brings us closer to our $15,000 goal.
👉 Donate Here: Campaign

Post it on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn — or text it to someone who loves horses or therapy-based work.

5. Check for workplace matching gifts

Many employers double — or even triple — Giving Tuesday donations.

6. Cheer us on

Your encouragement and presence help our mission grow.

Your Impact at the Barn

🎉Your Impact at the Barn

Every year, we ask ourselves the same question: What changed because of YOU?

Here’s a quick look at the difference our community helped make this year:

1,243 sessions delivered across physical, occupational, speech, and mental health support
150 sessions fully funded by scholarships, ensuring every family has access to care
A growing therapy herd, each supported with top-tier nutrition, veterinary care, and enrichment
New friendships formed, both equine and human — the kind that bring confidence, calm, and connection

These moments don’t just happen.
You helped make every one of them possible.

Ways to Support Us

Click the Ad Below 👇: For every click on the sponsored ad at the bottom of this newsletter, Stable Friendships receives $1.50 — no donation required. It’s a simple, free way to support our programs!

Online Donations: Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

Find inner peace at the piano with flowkey

Start learning today

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Friendships Foundation — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 17:40:11 +0000

Boo-Tiful Barn Event | Intern News | Ask The Therapist 2026

🎃Stable Smiles: Looking Back @ Halloween 2024

Our News

📣 Ask The Therapist Dates Returns

We’re thrilled to announce the return of our Ask the Therapist series in 2026!
We’ll kick things off on January 14th from 6:30–7:30 PM with “Hippotherapy 101.”

Hosted by Melissa Jarzynski, MSPT, HPCS, this session will explore:
• What hippotherapy is
• What it entails and how sessions work
• Who benefits most from this approach
• How to determine if your loved one may be a good fit

This is a wonderful opportunity for parents, caregivers, and professionals to deepen their understanding of how equine movement can support growth, healing, and connection.

👉 To sign up https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/8SX-6tjJRoyoqsehrqo34w

We hope to see you there! 💙🐴

Click on the Photo to Register !

Future OTs in action! Richard and Sarah from PACE University joined us this fall to explore the healing power of nature and horses

🍂 Celebrating our Fall OT Students

This fall, we were lucky to welcome Richard and Sarah, Occupational Therapy students from PACE University, to the farm. They spent their Mondays and Saturdays alongside Laura Merino, OT, learning how to “practice outside the box” through our unique, nature-based approach.

Their curiosity, compassion, and willingness to learn brought such positive energy to every session. We’ve truly loved having them as part of our herd!

Richard shared this reflection about his time at the farm:

We couldn’t agree more, Richard. Wishing both of you continued success as you carry this experience into your careers!

Nic or Neigh; A Halloween Hit 🎃

Our annual Nic or Neigh celebration was a smashing success! Earlier this month, families joined us for an afternoon filled with pony parades, stall-to-stall trick-or-treating, pumpkin painting, and plenty of smiles.

The barn was bursting with laughter, creativity, and connection — a true reflection of the community spirit that makes Stable Friendships so special.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate with us, and a special shoutout to Lynn from Hazel Nut Farm, who worked her decorating magic and made everyone feel right at home.

Until next year… we’ll be counting down the days to more treats, more laughter, and more Stable Friendships! 🐴🧡

Ways to Support Us

Online Donations : Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

🕰️ Answer: B. Four!
A team of four horses could plow roughly an acre of land in a day — talk about teamwork and endurance!

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Friendships Foundation — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 19:32:56 +0000

🧸 A Heartfelt Thanks to Mattel | 🎃 Nic or Neigh | The Return of Peace in the Paddock™

Stable Smiles: Flashback Fun 🎃

Last Halloween, we created a fun, allergy-friendly experience for everyone—painting pumpkins, decorating spooky goodie bags, and enjoying moments with our sweet ponies. Every moment was crafted with care so everyone could join the joy. Thank you to all who came, shared smiles, donned costumes, and let their creativity shine.

Our News

🎁 A Heartfelt Thank You to Mattel

This month, we’re sending a huge thank you to Mattel for their generous donation to Stable Friendships Foundation. For a small nonprofit like ours, support from a corporation can make a big difference—it helps us grow our programs, care for our herd, and continue offering life-changing sessions to families in need.

Know a company or organization that would love what we do? We’d be so grateful if you connected us! You can reach us at program@stablefriendshipsfoundation.org. Every introduction helps us create more stable smiles 🐴✨

Click Here to Sign up for this FREE Event

🎃 You're Invited to Our Nick or Neigh Halloween Bash! 🐴👻

Join us for an afternoon of fun, sensory-friendly fun at the farm! From painting pumpkins and decorating goodie bags to meeting our sweet therapy horses—this event is crafted with care for children of all abilities.

📅 Date: October 25, 2025
📍 Location: 21 Waccabuc River Ln, South Salem NY
⏰ Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm

👻 Costumes welcome
🎨 Crafts & activities
🐴 Pony meet & greet
🍬 Allergy-friendly treats

Spots are FREE—RSVP today!

One Spot Left! Click here to learn more!

🐴 Peaceful Moments Await…

Fall is the perfect time to slow down, breathe deep, and reconnect—with yourself, nature, and our healing herd.

Finding Peace in the Paddock begins October 6th in Redding, and there's just one spot left for this transformative experience rooted in mindfulness, grounded presence, and equine connection.

💫 Can’t make it to Redding? No worries. We'll be offering new opportunities right here at home in South Salem soon. Stay tuned—peace is closer than you think.

Ways to Support Us

Online Donations : Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

👉 Trivia Answer:

B. Gunpowder — a bony, spirited old horse that added even more spook to Ichabod’s midnight ride!

The #1 platform for newsletters. Period.

beehiiv is the one platform that does everything for your newsletter. And they do mean everything:

A newsletter editor that makes your words shine like they belong on a bestseller list
A no-code website builder that doubles as your 24/7 subscriber magnet
Revenue tools that make earning money so easy it feels like cheating: ads, referrals, and paid subs

If you’ve got a newsletter (or even just the idea for one), beehiiv is the ultimate no-brainer.

Start for free on the absolute best platform for newsletters. No credit card required.

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Friendships Foundation — Sun, 31 Aug 2025 17:39:55 +0000

✨New Website | New Board Member | 🌟 Free Featured Resource

Stable Smiles: A Look Inside Our New Home

We’re kicking off this month’s newsletter with a little magic—captured through the lens of our incredibly talented friend and volunteer, Kristen Vallejo.

✨ Haven’t seen the new property yet? Kristen’s stunning reel offers a front-row seat to the joy, beauty, and healing that happens here every day. From quiet moments between horse and human to the wide open space we now call home—it’s all in there.

And let’s be honest: if you’ve ever seen a photo of Stable Friendships that looks incredible, the credit probably goes to Kristen.

📸 Want to see more of her work (or work with her yourself)?
Visit Kristen Vallejo Photography

We’re beyond lucky to have her as part of the family.

Our News

🖥️ New Barn, New Look - Our Website Got a Makeover !

Just like our ponies found a new home, we decided it was time to refresh ours too—digitally speaking! We’re so excited to unveil our brand-new website, designed with you in mind. 🐴✨

Whether you’re looking to learn more about our mission, explore programs, get involved, or make a donation, our new site is easier to navigate and full of heart.

👉 Bookmark StableFriendshipsFoundation.org so you don’t miss out on any updates, resources, or exciting adventures from the barn.

We’re still learning all the ways to use this new platform, but we hope it helps you feel even more connected to our growing community.

Can’t you just feel the fresh hay and heart through the screen? 🖥️🐴

📸 Pictured here: A sneak peek of their community based, easy-to-navigate site.

Featured Resourse: Wefayo.com

We’re proud to highlight Wefayo.com, a compassionate, community-based platform created by a Westchester father who couldn’t find reliable resources for his son with special needs, so he built one. The goal? To ensure no family navigates the journey alone.

As Kevin Field, Wefayo’s founder and co-creator, shared during a recent episode of the Dare to Be Authentic podcast, "Wefayo is a platform that connects people with medical conditions and special needs to supportive communities, resources, and opportunities."

Want to learn more about the heart behind this initiative? Listen to the “Dare to Be Authentic” podcast interview with Wefayo founders Kevin Field and Henry Lujja (the developer) to hear the full story behind this meaningful resource.

🌟Teamwork in action—Jennifer and Jessica supporting Brett in his Speech Therapy Session

🎉New Board Spotlight: Jennifer Gressin-Rybalov Joins the Team!

If Jennifer’s face looks familiar, it’s because she’s already a beloved part of our therapy team. As a skilled speech and language pathologist, Jennifer has been making a difference in sessions through her deep understanding of oral motor development—something that aligns beautifully with equine movement.

Now, we’re thrilled to welcome her to our Board of Directors! Her dedication, clinical insight, and heartfelt passion for our mission make her an incredible addition. You’ll often find Jennifer co-treating alongside our therapy team, always bringing energy, empathy, and expert care to her work.

Outside the barn, Jennifer’s compassion extends to animals of all kinds—she frequently fosters rescue kittens and volunteers with several local rescue organizations. We’re so lucky to have her heart and her voice helping guide the future of Stable Friendships.

Ways to Support Us

Online Donations: Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

Answer: C) Daylight hours! ☀️
Shorter days trigger hormonal changes that tell a horse’s body it’s time to start growing a thicker coat for winter, even if it’s still warm out.

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Friendships Foundation — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 18:15:45 +0000

🎉 Celebrating Our 501(c)(3) Status! | Volunteer Corner | We’re in the News 🗞️

Stable Smiles: New Barn, Same Magic

At our new barn, something beautiful is happens. Our young friends don’t always realize they’re here for therapy—because to them, it just feels like showing up for their equine friend.

Behind each quiet hello is something deeper: motor planning, emotional regulation, sensory integration, and meaningful connection.

In a moment as simple as clipping a lead rope, a child is building confidence, engaging their body, and doing therapeutic work—without it feeling like work. That’s the power of equine-assisted therapy. 🐴❤️

Our News

🎉 We are Official ! 🎉

We are incredibly proud to announce that Stable Friendships Foundation is now officially recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization by the IRS!

This milestone represents more than just a change in status — it’s the launchpad for the next chapter of our mission. With this designation, we can now formally apply for grants, and grow our fundraising efforts to sustain and expand our programs.

But even more meaningful than the paperwork is the unwavering support we’ve felt from this community. To those of you who believed in our vision—before the IRS did—thank you. Your encouragement, time, donations, and belief in the healing power of horses helped us get to this moment.

As we look ahead, we’d love your help:
👉 Do you know of a local grant opportunity, business donation match program, or employer-sponsored giving fund?
👉 Are you connected to a foundation or organization that supports therapy, education, or animal-assisted programs?

Every tip or introduction can go a long way in helping us build sustainable support. If something comes to mind, please reach out to us at Program@stablefriendshipsfoundation.org.

We’re just getting started, and we’re so glad you’re on this journey with us. 🐴💛

A Note of Gratitude & A New Chapter

As we continue to grow, so does our incredible team. This month, we say a heartfelt thank you to Alix, who has served as our Volunteer Coordinator with compassion and care. Her dedication helped shape our program, and we are deeply grateful for all she has contributed.

Moving forward, all volunteer communications will come from our new email:
📧 Volunteer@stablefriendshipsfoundation.org

Please be sure to check your spam or promotions folder if you don’t see a reply—sometimes our messages wander!

Thank you for being part of our herd. We couldn’t do this without you. 💛🐴

Read all about it! 🗞️

We’re in The News 📰

We’re honored to be featured in The Recorder’s Pets & People section (pg. 9) in an article titled “Paws and Effect: How Animals Boost Our Health and Help Us Heal.” 🐴

The piece spotlights Stable Friendships Foundation and our unique use of hippotherapy—a combination of physical, occupational, and speech therapy supported by equine movement. As shared in the article, “The need is very much there, especially for this area,” said Melissa Jarzynski, our physical therapist and Hippotherapy Clinical Specialist.

We’re proud to be among a small number of centers offering these science-backed services in Westchester—and beyond. Thank you to The Recorder for helping share the healing power of horses.

📖To Read the Entire Article, Click here: The Recorder, Special Edition

Ways to Support Us

Online Donations : Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

🫀Answer: B) 40–60 beats per minute! ❤️Fun fact: This calm and steady heart rate is part of what makes horses such powerful co-regulators for nervous system work in therapy.

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Friendships Foundation — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 16:57:46 +0000

Fresh Pastures | New Faces | Now Recruiting

Stable Smiles: Lessons from Zee

Our horses are often our greatest teachers. One of our dedicated leaders recently shared, "Zee taught me the power of stillness and how to connect by slowing down."

As we welcome new volunteers and prepare for upcoming leader trainings, we’re reminded that great leadership in the ring starts with quiet presence, patience, and a willingness to learn—from the horses themselves.

Our News

A New Home : Fresh Pastures!

Our ponies are settling in beautifully at our new home in South Salem! They've been spending time exploring the land, taking calming walks, and adjusting to their peaceful new surroundings. We are so proud of how gracefully they’ve embraced this transition.

Therapy sessions will officially resume on July 7th, and we can’t wait to welcome our community into this next chapter. The new barn is filled with possibility—and we’re thrilled to share it with all of you!

Our new barn is ready to welcome everyone back!

Welcome to our newest board members—bringing fresh energy, big hearts, and a shared commitment to partnering with horses. 🐴💛

Welcome to the Team: Emma & Dylan

We’re thrilled to officially welcome Emma Yeager and Dylan Telano to our Board!

Many of you already know Emma, our Equine Behavior Director, whose deep connection with our herd is nothing short of remarkable. With extensive training in horse behavior and handling, Emma brings insight, care, and a calming presence to both horses and humans alike. You’ll often find her at the farm tending to the herd, supporting therapy sessions, or quietly observing to ensure our equine partners are thriving.

Joining her is her partner, Dylan Telano, a dynamic storyteller and entrepreneur. Dylan is the founder of VoyceMe, a first-of-its-kind platform empowering creators in the digital comics space. Often described as “the YouTube for manga and webtoons,” Dylan’s work centers around amplifying voices and building vibrant communities—values that align beautifully with our mission.

We are so excited to have both Emma and Dylan bring their unique passions and talents to the Stable Friendships Foundation. 🐴💛

Now Recruiting Horse Leaders! 🐴

Our horse leaders are the heart of every session. Their connection with the horse is paramount—research shows that horses respond best to familiar, trusted humans. Leaders are responsible for getting horses tacked, warmed up, and safely supported throughout therapy sessions. Simply put: without skilled leaders, sessions can’t happen.

If you’re experienced, dedicated, and want to make a direct impact, we’d love to hear from you.
Reach out to Alix at Alix@stablefriendshipsfoundation.org to learn more.

Ways to Support Us

Spread the Word: Help us raise awareness about the healing power of horsemanship by sharing our mission with your friends, family, and social media networks. Guess What!! You can use the icons at the top of this email to seamlessly share our content via email, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Facebook. Together, let’s amplify our message and make a lasting difference!

Online Donations : Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

Answer: True!

Just like us, horses—especially those with light-colored coats or pink skin—can get sunburned. We keep a close eye on our sweet Sunny, as his white blaze can turn pink when he’s had too much sun!

The Stable Scoop: The Big Move Edition

Stable Friendships Foundation — Fri, 30 May 2025 16:30:00 +0000

🐴 New Horizons : The Stable Friendships Move 🐴

Stable Smiles: Zee’s First Steps At Access

Before we look ahead to our next chapter, we’re smiling back at one of our favorite memories — Princess Zee’s first day at Access Equestrian.

She was the first of our herd to step into this space, and with her came hope, healing, and the beginnings of something beautiful. Zee’s calm, intuitive nature helped set the tone for everything that followed — from welcoming new horses and families to building a community rooted in trust and connection.

As we prepare to move again, it feels only right to honor where it all began. Thank you, Princess Zee, for leading the way.

Our News

New Horizons: The Stable Friendships Move

A new chapter is unfolding for us at Stable Friendships Foundation!
We’re thrilled to announce that on June 15th, we’ll be moving to our new home — a place filled with fresh possibilities, open pastures, and plenty of room to grow.

But before we show you around our next adventure, let’s take a moment to reflect on the journey that brought us here.

Over the last 18 months at Access Equestrian, we experienced tremendous growth. We tripled our herd, expanded our team of therapists, and increased the number of families we serve — all while maintaining meaningful partnerships with organizations like Hospital for Special Surgery and PACE University. We’re incredibly grateful for the support and shared space Access provided during this foundational time.

Now, we’re heading to Hazelnut Farm, peacefully located in South Salem, NY. Our horses are looking forward to 24/7 turnout and a peaceful trail system, while our two-legged teammates are excited about a beautiful indoor arena and a dedicated barn space to continue our work.

As we settle in, we’ll be giving our horses time to acclimate to their new surroundings before resuming sessions. Just like the humans they support, they deserve space to feel safe, grounded, and at home — ensuring they can continue their important work with calm and confidence.

We can’t wait to welcome you to our new home and continue this heart-centered journey with you. Stay tuned — we’ll be sharing more soon about how you can visit, volunteer, or support us in this exciting new phase!

Get a first look at Hazelnut Farm — click here for a special sneak peek!

Ways to Support Us

Online Donations : Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Friendships Foundation — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 16:25:55 +0000

☀️Sunny is On Duty | 💕Meet The Founder: Laura Merino

Stable Smiles: From First Meeting to First Session

Since this month we’re celebrating Sunny officially being on duty, we thought it would be fun to look back at the special moment when he first joined our herd. What began with a few curious glances across the paddock has grown into a trusted partnership.

Many hours were spent preparing Sunny for his moment to shine—through practice sessions, gentle introductions, and relationship-building. And now, he’s walking into sessions with confidence, purpose, and heart.

Our News

Meet The Founder : Laura Merino, OT

What led you to become an occupational therapist, and how did that journey bring you to equine-assisted therapy?
Becoming an OT wasn’t always part of the plan, but looking back, my path unfolded naturally. I studied Biology as an undergraduate while working part-time as a respite worker for children with different needs. That’s where I was first introduced to occupational therapists and was drawn to their holistic approach and focus on meaningful, individualized care.

After graduation, I spent several years as an environmental educator, always working with children and maintaining a strong connection to nature. I also spent summers at my grandmother’s farm, surrounded by animals and horses—experiences that quietly shaped my future. When I realized OT combined everything I loved—working with people, nature, and meaningful activities—I knew I had found my calling.

Later, while volunteering at a farm as a sidewalker, I met therapists using hippotherapy who encouraged me to give it a try. Taking that leap took some courage, but I’ve continued to grow and learn from the experience ever since.

How do you see hippotherapy making a difference in the lives of the individuals you work with?
Hippotherapy has a powerful effect on regulation and learning, creating a low-stress, highly motivating environment where clients feel safe to explore, grow, and connect. I see individuals not only gaining skills and self-awareness, but also discovering their place in relationship with others—including our equine partners. It's a unique setting that brings out joy, insight, and confidence.

What are your hopes for the future of Stable Friendships Foundation and its impact on the therapy community?
My hope is that Stable Friendships Foundation continues to be a peaceful, welcoming place where people and families receive holistic care rooted in respect, nature, and community. I also hope to see the Latino community and individuals from all backgrounds feel represented and included in this work. There’s so much healing possible when we prioritize positive relationships—between people, animals, and the world around us.

Founder and occupational therapist Laura Merino, OT, in action during a session—bringing care, creativity, and connection to every moment in the arena. 🐴💙

☀️Sunny Steps Into His New Role

We’re thrilled to share that Sunny is officially on duty as a therapy horse at Stable Friendships Foundation! After weeks of thoughtful introductions, training, and relationship-building, Sunny has shown us he’s more than ready to step into his new role supporting our clients.

Sunny, an 8-year-old Haflinger-Belgian Draft cross, brings a calm, grounded presence to each session. His gentle nature, steady movement, and willingness to connect have already made a meaningful impact. We couldn’t be prouder of the hard work he—and our team—put in to get here.

At Stable Friendships, we follow strict guidelines around how much each horse is allowed to work per day and per week. We’ll be gradually increasing Sunny’s sessions to ensure he’s handling his new responsibilities well—while also giving him the time he needs to decompress, rest, and simply be a horse.

Watching Sunny thrive in his new role is a beautiful reminder that healing starts with trust, patience, and partnership. We can’t wait to see the many lives he’ll touch on this journey. 💛

Ways to Support Us

Online Donations : Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

Answer: D) 15–20 gallons
That’s right—an adult horse can drink up to 15–20 gallons of water each day! Hydration is just as important for our herd as it is for humans, especially as they support us in therapy sessions.🐴💦

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Friendships Foundation — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 15:09:21 +0000

Free Resources for Families | Intern News | New Friendships Blooming

Stable Smiles: Friendships Blooming All Around

7 comments | 🐴 Friendship isn’t just for humans—it’s a foundation for horses too! At Stable Friendships Foundation, we take friendships seriously, whether it’s between people or our equine companions. Did you know that when horses nip at each other’s faces, it’s not just for fun? It’s their way of saying, ‘I trust you’ and strengthening their bond. This playful behavior is like their version of a friendly game of tag—horse style! Watching these two reminds us how important it is to nurture our friendships, whether with a friend who lifts us up or a horse who shares our journey. Now tag one of your friends who would play like this and let them know they’re your favorite buddy! 💌👇 #stablefriendships #hippotherapy #equestrians #bondingmoments #animallovers #horsesofinstagram #hippotherapy #friendship | Stable Friendships Foundation

🐴 Friendship isn’t just for humans—it’s a foundation for horses too! At Stable Friendships Foundation, we take friendships seriously, whether it’s between people or our equine companions. Did you...

www.facebook.com/share/r/1Bbu9hgQ8A

Our News

Free Resources for Families: Ask The Therapist

A Successful Launch for Ask the Therapist!

Earlier this month, we hosted our very first Ask the Therapist event, and it was a wonderful success! Led by Laura Merino, OT, this bilingual session created a lively and uplifting space for parents to ask questions, gain insight, and connect with one another. We are so grateful to everyone who joined us for this important conversation!

We’re excited to keep the momentum going with our next event on April 26th from 4:00 - 5:00 PM. This session will be hosted by Melissa Jarzynski, PT, and Laura Merino, OT, with a special focus on hippotherapy. Parents will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the role of equine movement in therapy.

We hope to see you there! 💙🐴

Click on the Photo to Register !

Learning in Motion! 🐴✨ Lulu and MacKenzie join Melissa, Jake, Emma, and Ozzy in a hands-on session—where therapy, teamwork, and connection come to life.

Future OT’s : Welcoming Our Spring Interns

This spring, we’re thrilled to welcome MacKenzie, Lulu, and Rosanna from the PACE OT program as part of their Level 1 fieldwork experience. These aspiring occupational therapists are diving into the world of equine-assisted therapy, learning how the barn can become a space for movement, connection, and growth.

Here’s what they’ve shared so far:

🗣️ Lulu: "It’s amazing to see how holistic this practice is—working on a horse fosters a level of connection that goes beyond traditional therapy, creating profound moments for these children."

🗣️ MacKenzie: "My fieldwork experience at Stable Friendships Foundation has been nothing short of amazing. It has been incredible seeing how horses are implemented into the therapy session, and just how connected they are with the clients."

We’re grateful to be a part of their journey and excited to continue supporting the next generation of therapists who value both innovation and compassion.

Sunny looks on as Zee enjoys her hay—two herd mates slowly building trust, one peaceful moment at a time. Forage, freedom, and friendship: the foundation of a happy, healthy therapy horse. 🐴💛

New Friends, Old Souls: Sunny & Zee’s Growing Bond

Just like people, horses have their own personalities, preferences, and social rhythms—and sometimes, building a friendship takes time. This month, we’ve been witnessing the beautiful beginnings of a bond between Sunny, our newest herd member, and Zee, our wise and grounded senior.

Their slow and respectful introduction is a powerful reminder that horses are social, emotional beings who thrive when their needs are honored. At Stable Friendships, we follow the guiding principles of Forage, Freedom, and Friendship—because supporting our horses’ emotional and physical well-being isn’t just kind, it’s essential.

By creating an environment that keeps our horses mentally and physically safe, we help ensure they can continue to do their work safely and effectively. A well-cared-for horse is a confident, connected partner—and that makes all the difference in the healing work they do.

With a grateful heart, we want to thank Emma Yeager, our incredible Equine Manager, whose deep care and thoughtful attention keep our ponies happy, healthy, and ready to connect. 🐴💛

Ways to Support Us

Online Donations : Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

Trivia Answer: Answer: A) 5
There are only 5 HPCS-certified therapists in all of New York State—and we’re incredibly proud to have one of them right here at Stable Friendships Foundation! This certification represents the highest level of expertise in incorporating equine movement into therapy. 🐴👏

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Friendships Foundation — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 15:58:00 +0000

Founder Spotlight | Learning, Growing and Looking Ahead | Hippotherapy at PACE

Stable Smiles: A Summer Throwback

With the winter chill in full swing, we’re looking back at a fun summer moment to remind us that warmer days are on their way! Watch as Ozzy enjoys a refreshing spray from the hose—because even our horses love to cool off in the summer heat. Hang in there, sunshine will be here before we know it! ☀️🐴

Our News

Educating Future OT’s: Hippotherapy @ PACE

This month, we had the incredible opportunity to teach a class to the Occupational Therapy students at PACE University, introducing them to hippotherapy and how it can be integrated into treatment plans. As awareness of equine-assisted therapy continues to grow, we’re honored to help shape the next generation of OTs by sharing the science and impact behind this powerful approach.

We are also thrilled to strengthen our relationship with the PACE OT program and look forward to welcoming three OT interns this spring! Their hands-on experience at Stable Friendships will give them valuable insight into the role of horses in therapy, and we can’t wait to support their learning journey.

Founder and occupational therapist Laura Merino, OT, educating future therapists on integrating equine movement into treatment plans—an important step in expanding access to this impactful approach!

Melissa & Ryler waiting for their equine partner to join the session.

Founder Spotlight: Meet Melissa

1. What inspired you to co-found Stable Friendships Foundation, and what was your vision for it?
"The inspiration behind co-founding Stable Friendships Foundation is multifaceted, but the core vision was to create a community where people from all walks of life could access equine-assisted services while ensuring the welfare of our horses remained just as important. In this vision, horses and humans share space in a way that fosters connection, respect, and a truly healing environment for all.

2. How have you seen hippotherapy and equine assisted therapy make a difference in the lives of participants?
Having been in the equine-assisted therapy industry for the past 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing what can only be described as mini miracles. I’ve been present for so many ‘firsts’—first words, first steps, first acts of bravery—all made possible through the incredible partnership between horses and humans. It is truly an honor to do this work and to witness the profound impact it has on our participants..

3. What are your hopes for the future of Stable Friendships Foundation?
My hope for Stable Friendships Foundation is to have a lasting, positive impact on those we serve, our equine partners, and the industry at large. I want our work to set an example of what is possible in equine-assisted therapy, showing that this profession can be both impactful and sustainable. By leading the way, I hope we can inspire other therapists to create meaningful change while always prioritizing the well-being of both humans and horses.

A day of learning, connection, and horsemanship with Jacleen Hess! Grateful for this incredible group and the opportunity to grow together. 🐴💙

Learning, Growing, and connection with Jacleen Hess

This month, we had the incredible opportunity to learn from Jacleen Hess, the talented trainer and PTA who helped train our equine partners, Ozzy and Sunny. Our afternoon together was filled with hands-on horsemanship, problem-solving, and deepening our understanding of seeing things from the horse’s perspective—because sometimes, that’s exactly what helps us move forward.

It was an amazing experience, and we’re already looking forward to welcoming Jacleen back this spring for another session of learning and connection. Thank you to everyone who joined us in making this such a meaningful day!

Ways to Support Us

Online Donations : Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

Trivia Answer:

Answer: B) They trained the horse to move its lips on cue!
Contrary to popular belief, Mr. Ed wasn’t made to "talk" with peanut butter. Instead, the talented palomino, Bamboo Harvester, was trained to move his lips when his trainer touched his hoof. Over time, he even started doing it on verbal command, making him one of TV’s most famous horses!

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Friendships Foundation — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 16:15:01 +0000

Welcome Sunny ☀️ | Introducing SibShops | Launching Ask the Therapist Series

Stable Smiles: Double The Therapy, Double the Progress

Meet Brett, who’s welcoming us into his therapy session where speech and physical therapy come together for an extra-powerful impact! By combining oral motor work with gross motor skills—all while harnessing the movement of the horse—our therapists are seeing incredible progress. Watch how teamwork, movement, and a little fun create big breakthroughs! 🌟

Our News

Meet Sunny: A Bright New Addition to our Herd

We are thrilled to introduce Sunny, an 8-year-old Haflinger-Belgian Draft cross, and the newest member of our equine herd! With his calming energy and wisdom beyond his years, he’s already making an impact. Sunny’s “mom,” Patricia Steccato, isn’t just his biggest fan—she’s also one of our dedicated speech therapists and a valued board member.

Now that Sunny has completed his quarantine from traveling, we’re focused on setting him up for success in sessions. This includes practice sessions with our staff to ensure he’s comfortable, confident, and ready to support our participants. We are beyond grateful to have this special duo on this journey with us!

Not only is Patricia one of our dedicated speech therapists and a valued board member, but she’s also Sunny’s proud mom! We’re so lucky to have this dynamic duo as part of our Stable Friendships family.

Email: Alix@stablefriendshipsfoundation.org

Introducing SibShops: Support for Siblings

We’re excited to launch Sibshops, a fun and supportive program designed specifically for the siblings of kids with disabilities. While much focus is placed on children receiving services, siblings often have the longest-lasting relationship with their brother or sister—and they need support, too!

Sibshops provide a lively, recreational setting where siblings can:
✔️ Meet other sibs who understand their experiences
✔️ Have fun through engaging games and activities
✔️ Talk openly about the ups and downs of having a sibling with support needs
✔️ Gain tools for handling tricky situations
✔️ Learn more about the services their siblings receive

Sibshops are offered around the world and are built on a trusted, research-backed curriculum. We’re thrilled to bring this program to our community and create a space where siblings can feel supported, connected, and—most importantly—have fun!

📅 Our first Sibshops session will be held on March 2nd!
📩 To sign up or learn more, contact Alix@stablefriendshipsfoundation.org

A warm welcome from the goats at Special Strides—because every visit starts with a little farm charm!

Launching Ask the Therapist: Empowering Parents

We’re excited to introduce Ask the Therapist, a new series designed to support and empower parents by providing expert guidance on therapy-related topics. Led by our experienced occupational therapist and founder, Laura Merino, OT, these sessions create a welcoming space for parents to ask questions, gain insight, and feel more confident navigating their child’s therapy journey.

🌟 Join us for our free bilingual virtual conversation with Laura! 🌟
Laura has 10 years of experience working with children in schools, clinics, and homes. She is also currently working in hippotherapy, bringing her expertise to equine-assisted therapy.

📅 Our first session will be held on February 22nd at 4:00 PM!
🔗 Register in advance here: Register Now
📩 Have questions? Email Laura directly at laura@stablefriendshipsfoundation.org

We can’t wait to kick off this exciting initiative and provide families with valuable knowledge and support!

Ways to Support Us

Online Donations : Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

Hoofprints of Hope Campaign: Our Hoofprints of Hope campaign is still running! This is more than just a fundraiser; it's a chance to leave your mark and help us create new, life-changing friendships through the power of equine therapy. Join us in making a difference by contributing to this impactful campaign

Trivia Answer: Answer: 100%! 🐴💙

Every horse at Stable Friendships is owned by a therapist! Our team is dedicated to ensuring that our equine partners are not just here for work—they are part of our family. Their well-being, happiness, and care are always a top priority. ❤️

The Stable Scoop: A Year in Review

Stable Friendships Foundation — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 17:36:27 +0000

Founders Message | Highlights | Looking Ahead

Stable Smiles: Stories to Inspire

This year has been filled with countless moments of growth and connection, and none touch our hearts more than hearing directly from the families we serve. Here’s what one parent shared about their experience with Stable Friendships Foundation:

Our News

A Message from the Founders

Dear Stable Friendships Family,

As we reflect on this incredible year, our hearts are full of gratitude for the amazing community that has grown around Stable Friendships Foundation. From the smallest victories to the grandest milestones, every moment has been a testament to the power of connection, resilience, and the magic of horses.

This year, we celebrated unforgettable events like our first-ever Nic or Neigh Halloween celebration, welcomed new horses and volunteers to our team, and expanded our reach through educational partnerships with organizations like AHA and APTA. Each session, each smile, and each story of progress reminded us why we do what we do.

We are so grateful for the unwavering support of our participants, families, volunteers, and donors who make this work possible. You have helped us build not just a foundation but a community rooted in hope, healing, and growth.

As we look ahead to 2025, we are filled with excitement for new opportunities to serve and connect. Together, we will continue to create a space where every individual, no matter their abilities, can find strength, joy, and belonging.

Thank you for being an integral part of this journey. Here’s to a new year of hope, healing, and horses!

Jessica, Laura & Melissa

Founders of Stable Friendships Foundation

Photo credit: Kristen Vallejo

It was all smiles at our event with the Hospital of Special Surgery Lerner Children’s Pavillion. Photo credit: Kristen Vallejo

Highlights Of 2024: A Year of Growth & Connection

As the year comes to a close, we’re reflecting on all the amazing moments that made 2024 unforgettable. Here are just a few highlights:

Expanding Our Reach: This year, we partnered with leading organizations like the American Hippotherapy Association (AHA) and the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), where we presented at multiple events to share the incredible benefits of hippotherapy.
Memorable Events: We hosted our first-ever Nic or Neigh Halloween celebration, bringing families together for a fun and sensory-friendly day with our horses and community.
Stories of Progress: From Ryler’s inspiring journey to heartwarming connections like Ozzy and Camryn’s bond, our participants showed us the power of determination and the magic of horses.
Building Bridges: We strengthened partnerships with organizations like The Penny Doerge Adaptive Academy (PDAA), Special Strides in NJ, and Hope River Farm in CT, expanding our impact and creating meaningful connections.

Thank you to everyone who helped make 2024 such a success.

Laura, our OT, lending a helping hand during our Nic or Neigh event.

Looking Ahead to 2025

The coming year promises even more growth! We’re excited to:

Expand to 40 therapy sessions to serve even more participants.
Launch SibShop, a fun, supportive program for siblings of children with medical complexities.
Host Ask the Therapist, a bilingual event to empower Spanish-speaking parents with medical knowledge and resources.
Offer Horsemanship for Medical Providers, a course designed to equip healthcare professionals with the tools to partner effectively with horses in therapy.

And there’s more to come—stay tuned for an exciting announcement about a special addition to our herd in 2025! 🐴

Ways to Support Us

Online Donations : Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

Simply Click Below 👇: We’re excited to share a simple way you can help support our foundation this month. By clicking the advertiser link below, you help us earn funds to continue our work. It’s quick, easy, and every click makes a difference!

Seeking impartial news? Meet 1440.

Every day, 3.5 million readers turn to 1440 for their factual news. We sift through 100+ sources to bring you a complete summary of politics, global events, business, and culture, all in a brief 5-minute email. Enjoy an impartial news experience.

Join for free today!

Trivia Answer: C) White Horse
In Dutch and Belgian traditions, Saint Nicholas is often depicted riding a white horse, which helps him deliver gifts to children. This loyal companion embodies the spirit of giving and joy, making it a beloved part of the holiday folklore.

Stable Friendships Foundation Newsletter

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Surprise : A Gift That Changes Everything 💛

Our News

💫A Wish Come True At The Farm

👋🏻 Meet Molly, OT

🐬Learning Beyond the Barn

Ways to Support Us

Answer: True, but not in the way you may think.Horses do have thicker skin than humans but that doesn’t mean they feel less. In fact, they are incredibly sensitive animals, able to detect even the smallest touch, like a fly landing on their body.

Tired of news that feels like noise?

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Smiles: Incase you Missed it!

Our News

✨ A Wish Come True

🐴 Meet Melissa

Ways to Support Us

Answer: B — Changes in daylight ☀️Horses actually shed based on daylight, not temperature. As the days get longer, their bodies receive signals to start shedding—spring weather just happens to show up around the same time.

Feeling off lately? It could be your hormones.

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Smiles: Reminder of the Sunny Days ☀️

Our News

🎓 From Barn to Classroom

🌸Barn Updates This Spring

🎉Learn More from the Warmth of Home

Ways to Support Us

Tutoring for the nights you're out of patience

Answer:C. Around 73,000 — according to federal estimates of federally protected wild horses and burros on Bureau of Land Management lands.

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Because of You 💛

Founders Letter

Ways to Support Us

Banish bad ads for good

Answer: True ! Research shows horses can recognize familiar humans and may show synchronized physiological responses with people they feel safe with.

📣 We did this together — $18,947 raised for therapy, horses, and families.

We Did It — And Then Some

💛 Want to Stay Connected?

✨Giving Tuesday Update : We are just getting started!

We’re already on the move — thank you!

💙 Donate and Share to our Giving Tuesday Campaign

📣 Share Our Campaign

👏🏻 Leave a Google Review

🤩 Follow Us on Social Media

👇 Support Us by Clicking Our Sponsor Ad

Prepare your pet for the unexpected

No matter how you show up today — giving, sharing, or cheering us on — please know: you are part of this impact.

✨Tomorrow’s the Day — Join Our Herd for Giving Tuesday 🤍

$15,000 to support life-changing therapy sessions at Stable Friendships Foundation

💙 1. Donate to our Giving Tuesday Campaign

💙 2. Share Our Newsletter With a Friend

💙 3. Leave a Google Review

💙 4. Follow Us on Social Media

💙 5. Support Us by Clicking Our Sponsor Ad

Find inner peace at the piano with flowkey

Together, We Make This Possible

✨Let’s Rally the Herd—Giving Tuesday Is Almost Here! 🐴

💙 1. Donate to our Giving Tuesday Campaign

💙 2. Share Our Newsletter With a Friend

💙 3. Leave a Google Review

💙 4. Follow Us on Social Media

💙 5. Support Us by Clicking Our Sponsor Ad

Find inner peace at the piano with flowkey

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Stable Smiles:A Year of Connection & Impact

Our News

✨Our Annual Report Is Here !

Giving Tuesday: Support Life - Changing Connections

🎉 Your Giving Tuesday Toolkit

1. Forward this email

2. Share the “View Online” link

3. Make a Giving Tuesday gift (if it feels right)

4. Share the Giving Tuesday link

5. Check for workplace matching gifts

6. Cheer us on

🎉Your Impact at the Barn

Ways to Support Us

Find inner peace at the piano with flowkey

The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

🎃Stable Smiles: Looking Back @ Halloween 2024

Our News

📣 Ask The Therapist Dates Returns

Answer:
True, but not in the way you may think.
Horses do have thicker skin than humans but that doesn’t mean they feel less. In fact, they are incredibly sensitive animals, able to detect even the smallest touch, like a fly landing on their body.

Answer: B — Changes in daylight ☀️
Horses actually shed based on daylight, not temperature. As the days get longer, their bodies receive signals to start shedding—spring weather just happens to show up around the same time.

Answer: True !
Research shows horses can recognize familiar humans and may show synchronized physiological responses with people they feel safe with.

🕰️ Answer: B. Four!
A team of four horses could plow roughly an acre of land in a day — talk about teamwork and endurance!

Answer: C) Daylight hours! ☀️
Shorter days trigger hormonal changes that tell a horse’s body it’s time to start growing a thicker coat for winter, even if it’s still warm out.

Answer: D) 15–20 gallons
That’s right—an adult horse can drink up to 15–20 gallons of water each day! Hydration is just as important for our herd as it is for humans, especially as they support us in therapy sessions.🐴💦