Berkshire HorseWork Obtains Nonprofit Status
RICHMOND, Mass. — In an effort to provide EAGALA Model Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) to a greater number of those in need in Berkshire County and neighboring cities, Berkshire HorseWorks has secured its nonprofit 501(C)3 designation.
Hayley Sumner, founder and executive director, first launched the organization in 2013 as a for-profit entity. Since its inception, BHW has been treating at-risk youth, veterans, families, individuals and couples with a broad range of challenges including anxiety, PTSD, bullying and eating disorders. BHW, in sessions with clients, uses rescue horses that are either retired from racing, injured, traumatized or otherwise handicapped.
In addition, BHW partners with local and national organizations to strengthen their workforces through team building and personal wellness initiatives. Clients have included Hillcrest Educational Center, Pittsfield Juvenile Resource Center, the Berkshire County Sheriff’s Office and Fox Sports Network, among others.
Sessions take place on the ground (no riding), are facilitated by both a licensed mental health professional and a qualified equine specialist, are solution-focused and follow a stringent code of ethics. BHW has been practicing this model in the Berkshires for more than a year, and with its newly designated nonprofit status, has gained the ability to reach a broader demographic through fundraising and grant initiatives, including tax-deductible donations.
BHW is located in a 27-acre compound in Richmond comprising the Berkshire Equestrian Center, hiking trails, outdoor paddocks, historic barns, state of the art jumping facilities, the Inn at Richmond, and a wellness center. For more information, visit www.berkshirehorseworks.com or call Hayley Sumner at 310-488-9777.