Sometimes, it all comes in to focus – what we do, why we do it, the amazing individuals and their families and communities that we serve, and then it is captured on a world stage.
Ivy Hill Therapeutic Equestrian Center in Perkasie is the proud home of 48-year-old Gold and Silver Medal winner Lisa Berlin, member of the United States Special Olympics Equestrian Team. Lisa is one of only two riders from PA, and one on a team of just 10 riders selected from across the country. She is the only Special Olympic Equestrian from Bucks County and eastern PA. A LifePath resident from Telford, she has been in Ivy Hill’s therapeutic riding program since 2009.
Ivy Hill provides equine-assisted activities and therapeutic programs for children and adults with special needs as well as financial, social and emotional support for their families and caregivers. Lisa is one of these adults who has benefitted greatly from her time spent at Ivy Hill with the horses.
Lisa competed in Los Angeles at the Special Olympic World Games this past August. Her dedication and hard work at Ivy Hill earned her a Silver Medal in Trail Riding, a Silver in Equitation and a Gold in Relay.
I would like you to join me in congratulating Lisa and everyone in the Ivy Hill organization. Congrats to Lisa’s instructor Janna Herrmann Pitak, Megan Strychowski Hance for directing a program of excellence, and the team of instructors, staff and equine partners who raise up bodies, hearts and spirits. Each of you guide our riders from their first lessons to their first competitions, from home shows to Penn State, and now beyond.
This is the truth: Horses + Love = Hope.
About the contributor: Donna Carlson is the Development Director for Ivy Hill Therapeutic Equestrian Center, located in Perkasie. A recent graduate of Delaware Valley University’s School of Business and Humanities, she is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Community and International Development. Diagnosed with eye cancer in 2008, Carlson is a passionate advocate for enabling those who face overwhelming odds overcome any disability or challenge with the help of a little horsepower.