NEWS from the Executive Director

Dear Friends of HorseAbility

Happy New Year! I can think of no better way to begin HorseAbility’s 20th year than by sharing some exciting news. It has always been my goal and ambition to have property completely devoted to HorseAbility, tranquil and spacious, a facility that would allow for the growth of our programs as we continue to serve the special needs community. That goal has been realized in a newly-forged partnership with SUNY College at Old Westbury.

HorseAbility will be moving to a space six times the size of our current location. As local history enthusiasts know, the campus of SUNY Old Westbury is the former estate F. Ambrose Clark - industrialist, sportsman, philanthropist, and avid horseman. Although his home, Broad Hollow House, burned down in 1968, the stables remain. In addition to the acres of grassy turn-outs, forty three roomy stalls, an enormous hayloft (that can hold 40 tons of hay), heated tack rooms, and indoor wash stalls, there is still space for multiple classrooms and therapy rooms. This facility will allow us to further expand our current programs and increase with new programs.

The warm welcome and support from Dr. Calvin Butts III, President of SUNY Old Westbury and the tremendous support of Senator Marcellino and Supervisor Venditto is very much appreciated during this transition. Part of our commitment to SUNY College at Old Westbury is to refurbish and renovate the property. Mr. Clark’s magnificent barn is still standing however the facility needs extensive renovations and “extreme” updating to create safe, spacious, beautiful, and virtually limitless possibilities for expansion of our services. The creation of a premier riding facility, that provides the best environment for our horses and our participants that is completely handicapped accessible is a monumental task. We have been working diligently preparing the property, building new riding rings, walkways, parking areas, updating all of the facilities, and beginning construction. We have had many people already begin to show their support with financial donations, in-kind service donations and construction (indoors and outdoors) in support of the 2.3 million dollar renovation budget.

To accomplish our goals we need the financial support of our community and the generosity of sponsors who share our vision for the future. Our first challenge is to raise necessary funds for our initial move ($75,000.00). Opportunities to lend a hand are limitless! Join us on Facebook, and Twitter to keep current with all the monumental changes taking place.

More than ever, I am touched by the generosity, kindness, and willingness by our clients, friends, volunteers, and supporters to go above and beyond for HorseAbility. The theme chosen for our Gala, “On Course for Our Future” was designed with this transition in mind. And thanks to all of you, the event was a huge success!

We are absolutely on course and heading for our new home!

Winter Newsletter

Wine Tasting
Rothmann’s Steak House March 12, 2012

LIHSSRD Show
Thomas School of Horsemanship
Apr 14