Below is a press release from Strongwater Farm:
TEWKSBURY, MA — Strongwater Farm Therapeutic Equestrian Center announces the fall season of its “Stronger Together” program supporting Veterans, First Responders, and their family members.
The program runs Fridays, from 10am to 11:30am, through October 10, 2025 at Strongwater Farm in Tewksbury.
Join us for a unique family-oriented program designed to bring first responders, veterans, and their loved ones closer together through horsemanship in a safe, nurturing environment. At our peaceful equine facility, families will work hands-on with our gentle horses, fostering confidence, communication, and meaningful connections—both with the horses and with each other. This program is unmounted (no riding) and no experience is required.
Sessions are led by an experienced husband-and-wife team who are passionate about working with First Responders, Veterans, and their families.
Program Highlights
-
Open to First Responders, Veterans, and their family members (individuals are also welcome to join our family).
-
Free of charge to all participants.
-
Attend once or as often as you like—come weekly or choose select dates.
-
90-minute sessions focused on horsemanship skills, teamwork, and wellness.
-
Unmounted (no riding) and no experience required.
“Horses meet people exactly where they are — without judgment,” said Lynn Pedersen, PATH Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. “This program gives families and individuals a calm space to reconnect, practice communication, and strengthen bonds that carry back into everyday life.”
How to Participate (Weekly RSVP)
-
RSVP by Wednesdays at 12:00 p.m. for that week’s Friday session.
-
Email chris.pedersen@strongwaterfarm.org with participant name(s), affiliation (First Responder/Veteran/family member), and preferred Friday date(s).
-
Space is limited; pre-registration is required each week.
For Town Departments, Unions, VSOs & Community Organizations
Refer your members or reserve a block of spots for a particular Friday. We welcome partnerships with:
-
Police, Fire, EMS, Dispatch, Corrections
-
Veteran Service Organizations and hospital/clinic teams
-
Military family support groups and community nonprofits
We can also co-host a family day or provide a private cohort for your agency/team. Contact chris.pedersen@strongwaterfarm.org to coordinate.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Help us keep this program free for those who serve. Sponsor benefits can include:
-
Recognition on Strongwater channels and on-site signage
-
Employee volunteer day and barn tour
-
Impact summary highlighting participant outcomes
-
Opportunities to underwrite a specific 8 week session or a full year ( 5 sessions)
To discuss sponsorships or in-kind support, email chris.pedersen@strongwaterfarm.org.
“Stronger Together” is partially sponsored by The UPS Store.
About Strongwater Farm
Strongwater Farm Therapeutic Equestrian Center has provided equine-assisted programs that promote physical, emotional, and social well-being for people of all ages and abilities for 20+ years. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Strongwater relies on the generosity of donors, sponsors, and volunteers to deliver life-changing services to our community.
Like Wilmington Apple on Facebook. Follow Wilmington Apple on Twitter. Follow Wilmington Apple on Instagram. Subscribe to Wilmington Apple’s daily email newsletter HERE. Got a comment, question, photo, press release, or news tip? Email wilmingtonapple@gmail.com.
Wilmington Apple 