Each year I look forward to writing this note to you, our generous supporters, who give countless amounts of time and treasure to Misty Meadows. From time spent picking paddocks for the herd, serving on committees, and leading horses in class to helping with community events, participating in programming and donating the dollars that keep our fees affordable for all, each of you is a valued member of our herd!

This past year we focused on positioning the organization to continue its impact long into the future. We launched a new strategic plan to guide our progress over the next three years. We piloted a small direct-service mental health program with a vision to expand those services. Our Junior Staff and Counselor in Training programs continue to develop youth leaders for our community and the world!

After being understaffed for much of 2024, we have hired two new staff members in the areas of groundskeeping and volunteer coordination. It feels good to have new energy and fresh ideas to carry our impact forward. Despite fewer staff hours in 2024, all of our programs continued without fail. We expanded our community partnerships to 45 other like-minded organizations, saw an increase in adult students seeking wellness, and raised more money than ever before thanks to an engaging summer benefit and a strong year-end appeal. We also earned the Equus Foundation’s top designation, Guardian Status, for a second year in a row.

As many of you know, in December we said goodbye to the wise elder of our herd, Noble. Before his passing, he helped us welcome two new members of the herd: a Quarter Horse gelding, Lucky and a Haflinger mare, Willow. Both of these new horses, as well as the rest of the seasoned herd, are carrying on Noble’s legacy of healing and connection for us two-legged folks, everyday.

2025 has started off on the right hoof and we look forward to the next time we welcome each of you to the farm to share in the joy and healing that is Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center.

With gratitude,

Sarah McKay,
Executive Director

Mission
& Vision

Our mission is to create a nurturing environment where horses and humans can work together to transform lives.

Our vision is to make an impact on the world, one horse experience at a time.

Misty’s goal is to provide a unique, magical, and transformative experience (unlike most traditional riding barns) in which people can connect with horses and themselves on a deeper level. Misty works with students to understand their emotional, physical, and cognitive needs, and how working with horses can enhance their health and wellness. Misty is welcoming and open to all individuals, regardless of age, race, sex, income, or any other demographic.

A Volunteer’s
Perspective

“In 2022 on a whim, I started volunteering at Misty Meadows. I had always been fascinated with horses but they were hard to find in the urban environments I was accustomed to. My assignments initially consisted of horse handler, outreach assistant with Tony Smalls, horse groomer and barn worker; all which finally culminated into the evening feed. Each position gave me the opportunity to learn a new skill, interact with staff and forge friendships that have reached beyond the barn walls. As a horse handler, I observed young riders gain confidence, perseverance and a growing connection and respect for their horses. Outreach allowed me to see Misty’s mission in action beyond the center, while nightly feed enabled me to meet the herd’s basic needs. There is nothing like heading out to the fields on a cold winter’s eve, sun setting, wind whipping, to be greeted enthusiastically by a line of horses at the paddock gate—though, I am not sure if they were for me or the buckets of food I carried.

When I volunteer, I like to meet a need in the community and a need in myself—sometimes one I am not even aware of. That whim 3 years ago led to personal growth, connection and increasing admiration and gratitude for Misty Meadow’s mission and herd. I am glad to be here.”

Nina Domenico, Volunteer

Transforming
the Life of a Child

“My child first became involved at Misty Meadows while he was working with a therapist at Community Services. As she began helping him to work through the trauma he was experiencing from domestic issues she learned about his interest in horses. She connected him with Misty Meadows where he began horsemanship classes and riding lessons. Being with the horses helped him to get through his most difficult days. His emotional connection with the horses helped him in the healing process as they provided him with a safe place to rebuild trust, regain his confidence, and lift his spirits.

Soon after, he was invited to be with other children from Community Services as they came to Misty Meadows to work on team building and relationship skills through bonding with the horses and each other. The staff and volunteers from Misty Meadows and Community Services worked side by side with the children and horses to create an atmosphere of acceptance, trust, and healing that was truly inspiring and magical to witness.

My child's life was transformed with the healing bonds that were formed at Misty Meadows! He is now continuing his healing journey as a volunteer at Misty Meadows and he is eager to share the magic of Misty Meadows with others!”

Parent of a youth horsemanship student

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