Milestones

September 1998

  • T.H.E. FARM is incorporated.
  • Over the next few years, the founders renovate the barn and program facilities, acquire horses and equipment, and train the first staff and volunteers.

June 2001

  • First major Strongwater event, including T.H.E. FARM Mix ‘n Match, Dressage, Driving Event, Hunter Jumpers, and Trail Ride

July 2001

  • T.H.E. FARM welcomes its first therapeutic clients.
  • Over time, there is steady growth in the number and type of clients who benefit from our services.

May 2003

  • First NEDA Dressage Series
  • First Annual Boston University Volunteer Days

September 2004

  • The Commonwealth enacts legislation preserving 450 acres of Tewksbury Hospital property as conservation land and T.H.E. FARM and it’s therapeutic programs are written into the law.

October 2004

  • First year participation in the Special Olympics with one of our clients earning a Gold Medal

November 2004

  • T.H.E. FARM is granted premier accreditation status by NARHA, an international standards-setting organization for equine assisted activities, therapies, and instructors

April 2006

  • Hundreds attend Temple Grandin Conference entitled “Animals in Translation & Autism & Asperger’s Syndrome”

September 2006

  • Governor Mitt Romney signs legislation (S2421) authorizing  a 99-year lease between T.H.E. FARM & the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

March 2008

  • The Discovery Channel crew visits with Jeff Corwin to film a TV special at about T.H.E. FARM shown nationally.

April 2008

  • Over 300 people attend the Temple Grandin Conference on the Tewksbury Hospital campus, sponsored jointly by T.H.E. FARM & DMR Northeast Regional Occupational Therapy Dept.

October 2008

  • After several years of work by the Board of Directors, community leaders, advisors and Attorney Jeff Hermanson, T.H.E. FARM reaches an agreement with the Commonwealth and signs a 99-year lease.

Summer 2010

  • T.H.E. FARM announces its capital funding campaign for the Equine Therapy Center.

Fall 2011

  • Pilot program is put in place for our ‘Horses for Heros’ Veterans Program.
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