High Hopes Summer 2026 Magazine

Connected by Hope THE HIGH HOPES MAGAZINE Summer 2026

Dear High Hopes Family, Summer at High Hopes is a season filled with energy. The barn is busy with lessons, campers, volunteers, horses, special events, and the countless moments of connection that make this community so extraordinary.

As I reflect on the first half of the year, I am filled with gratitude. This magazine captures many of the stories that inspire us every day — participants’ smiles, horses changing lives through their special gifts, volunteers sharing their time and talents, and supporters whose generosity makes this work possible.

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This spring and summer have been especially exciting for High Hopes. From the success of our Bella Notte gala to the continued growth of our programs, we have seen firsthand what is possible when a community comes together around a shared mission. We are also engaged in important conversations about the future of High Hopes through our strategic planning process, ensuring that we continue to deepen impact, and strengthen High Hopes for years to come.

At its heart High Hopes has always been about relationships — between people and horses, among families and caregivers, and within a community that believes everyone deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and enjoy time with our equine partners. Those relationships are the foundation of every lesson taught, every volunteer hour given, and every act of support shared.

As you read through these pages, I hope you feel the same sense of pride and optimism that I do. Thank you for being part of this remarkable community.

Whether you volunteer in the barn, attend an event, support our programs, or simply share our story, you help make our mission possible.

We are grateful for your partnership and look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the months ahead.

Tally Ho,

Missy Saracino Lamont, Executive Director, PATH Intl. CTRI, HERD Institute EFL

STAFF PROFILE

Journey of Commitment & Connection

Trudy Burgess Event Manager

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After a career in education and a return to her roots in Lyme, Trudy Burgess found her way to High Hopes in 2013, joining the development office as a coordinator. What began as a role supporting fundraising efforts quickly became a calling.

Trudy discovered a deep passion for bringing people together in support of a place that already held special meaning for her. Her natural ability to organize and connect, as well as a keen eye for what works has since become an integral part of High Hopes’ story.

Today as Event Manager, Trudy is the driving force behind many of the gatherings that bring our mission to life beyond the barn. From intimate community events to our signature gala, she has an incredible gift for creating experiences that feel welcoming, purposeful, and memorable. To Trudy an event is never just about logistics, it’s about creating opportunities for people to connect with one another and celebrate the work that we do.

While many know Trudy as a warm and familiar presence on campus, she is equally well known throughout the local community. Her genuine kindness, generous spirit, and ability to build lasting relationships have made her a trusted ambassador for High Hopes. She has a remarkable way of

making everyone feel comfortable and valued, putting the needs of others first and approaching every challenge with creativity, optimism, and a “let’s figure it out” mindset. No matter the obstacle, Trudy has a way of thinking outside the box and finding a path forward.

Her work has always been rooted in relationships, and she rarely does it alone. Her husband, Todd, is often by her side at events, lending a hand and reinforcing the sense that High Hopes is truly a family effort. At home in Lyme, Trudy balances life with her husband, three children, two dogs, and a cat — a full household that reflects the same warmth, energy, and heart she brings to work each day.

High Hopes is fortunate to have Trudy leading our events, but even more fortunate to have someone whose compassion, professionalism, and commitment help strengthen the relationships that make this organization so special.

Through her dedication she helps create the spaces where community gathers, stories are shared, and support for our mission continues to grow. We are deeply grateful for all she brings to High Hopes and the many connections she helps nurture along the way.

SUMMER 2026

HIGH HOPES

ANNUAL AWARDS Maris Wacs Trustee

The Sally Aubrey Award was established in 1998 by Stever Aubrey in honor of his wife Sally. This award recognizes an individual who exemplifies the spirit of High Hopes through dedication, compassion, and service. It is symbolized by the bronze sculpture of a mare and foal that greets all who arrive at our farm — a lasting representation of caring, connection, and community. Maris Wacs embodies that spirit beautifully.

We are profoundly grateful for her extraordinary leadership as a volunteer, combined with her generosity as a donor. Her contributions to our annual gala have been nothing short of transformative — from serving as co-chair during our 50th anniversary year, to leading auctions with vision and energy, her dedication, creativity, and commitment have had a meaningful and lasting impact on High Hopes and the community we serve.

03 03 Theresa Dryfoos Development Committee Member

Established in 2006, the Lytt Gould Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, vision, and a deep dedication to the long-term sustainability of High Hopes.

As a valued member of our Development Committee, Theresa has made High Hopes a true philanthropic priority. Her generosity is matched by her thoughtful engagement and her willingness to go above and beyond — connecting us with individuals who have become meaningful partners in our work and fostering relationships that have expanded our reach in profound and lasting ways.

Theresa’s steady partnership, her insight, and her belief in our mission have strengthened our organization and positioned us for the future.

We are deeply grateful for her advocacy, her leadership, and her enduring commitment.

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Randel Osborne Volunteer

The Nancy Cash Program Volunteer Award was proudly presented to Randel Osborne this year.

This award honors a volunteer who, like Nancy Cash, is dedicated, dependable, and always willing to go the extra mile — someone whose kindness and encouragement help those they serve achieve their personal best.

Since joining High Hopes as a volunteer in 2020, Randel has brought these qualities to every lesson.

Patient and generous with his time, he has a remarkable ability to recognize the unique needs of each participant he supports. He meets people where they are on any given day, offering a calm presence and just the right balance of support and independence.

Whether he is celebrating a participant’s success, offering reassurance during a challenging moment, or stepping back to allow someone the opportunity to build confidence in their own abilities, Randel consistently helps participants grow and thrive. His dedication and compassion make a meaningful difference in the lives of so many.

SUMMER 2026

AWARDS Jackie Kangley Committee Member & Former Trustee

High Hopes is proud to present this year’s Event Volunteer Award to Jackie Kangley, a longtime volunteer whose warmth, intelligence, and dependability have been instrumental to the success of our community events. For many years, Jackie has been an integral part of High Hopes celebrations, generously sharing her artistic eye and remarkable talent for design. From our signature galas to special gatherings, she has helped transform ordinary spaces into warm, welcoming environments that beautifully reflect the spirit of our organization.

Jackie’s commitment extends far beyond her creative contributions. Whether planning months in advance or stepping in to solve a last-minute challenge, she is always willing to lend her time and talents wherever they are needed. Thoughtful, resourceful, and always calm, Jackie approaches every project with a “how can I help?” attitude. Her years of experience and generosity have made her an invaluable partner.

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Judy Lambert

Volunteer

The New Volunteer Award goes to a volunteer who has made a meaningful impact in a short amount of time, and this year’s recipient, Judy Lambert, has done just that.

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Since joining High Hopes in 2025 as a sidewalker, Judy has quickly become a valued and versatile member of our volunteer team. In less than a year, she has added horse handler and turn-in to her volunteer resume, stepping into each role with enthusiasm and compassion.

No matter the task, Judy brings an infectious sense of joy and positivity to the barn. Her encouraging presence lifts up not only the participants she supports, but also the volunteers and staff around her. Judy has a special way of helping others feel comfortable, confident, and cared for, often leaving everyone around her smiling by the end of a lesson.

Judy’s background in nursing is evident in the calm, capable way she works with each individual. She brings patience, attentiveness, and a natural ability to connect with people, making her an incredible asset to our program. Her dedication to learning and growing in her role has also been clear from the start. Most recently, Judy has been working toward her PATH, Intl. certification as an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning and attended the workshop hosted at High Hopes this year.

Chris McCawley Volunteer

The Special Volunteer Award goes to Chris McCawley, who has been a dedicated High Hopes volunteer since 2019. Over the years, Chris has supported our programs in many ways, primarily as a horse handler in therapeutic riding lessons, while also volunteering as a sidewalker, and with our therapeutic carriage driving program.

Chris brings a thoughtful, steady presence to every lesson and has a remarkable ability to offer participants just the right balance of support and independence. He knows when to step in with encouragement and when to give riders the space to work through challenges, helping them build confidence in their riding skills.

As a retired equine veterinarian, Chris also brings a depth of knowledge and insight to the horses he works with. His understanding of equine behavior, comfort, and care adds another layer of support to our program and benefits both horses and participants alike.

Ray Lillis

Volunteer

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Our High Hopes Office Volunteer Award recognizes a volunteer whose time, dedication, and welcoming presence helps keep High Hopes running smoothly. This year’s recipient, Ray Lillis, embodies all of that and more.

Since beginning his volunteer service in 2023, Ray has been a steady and much-appreciated presence at the High Hopes front desk. Whether the day is quiet or bustling, Ray is always ready to lend a hand and offer a warm welcome to everyone who walks through the door. During slower moments, he can often be found with a book in hand. But the moment someone arrives Ray is the first to greet them and make sure they feel seen, comfortable, and at home.

Ray has a special gift for making people feel like family.

His kindness, consistency, and genuine care for others bring a sense of warmth to the office that is felt by staff, participants, volunteers, and visitors alike. Each winter he adds even more joy to campus when he arrives dressed as “Jolly St. Nick,” bringing smiles and holiday spirit to everyone around him.

SUMMER 2026

AWARDS Alison Brinkman Volunteer

The Barn & Facility Volunteer Award goes to a volunteer whose dedication, hard work, and commitment helps keep High Hopes running smoothly behind the scenes.

This year’s award went to Alison Brinkman, who has become an invaluable part of the volunteer team. Alison spends her Wednesday evenings helping close the barn: tackling everything from cleaning stalls and sweeping aisles to ensuring the facility is ready for the next day. Her dedication and willingness to lend a hand wherever it’s needed have made a lasting impact on both the horses and people who call High Hopes home.

Alison has also become a trusted mentor for new barn volunteers. She takes the time to welcome others and answer questions, creating an environment where everyone feels supported and valued.

Even during program breaks, Alison continues to volunteer her time, helping with paddock cleaning and other projects while sharing her quick wit and sense of humor with those around her.

03 07 James Scotella Participant

The Paul Burkarth Rider of the Year Award was established in memory of Paul Burkarth in 1985. This award is presented annually to the rider who has shown the most progress during the past year.

This year’s recipient, James Scotella, has demonstrated remarkable growth both in and out of the saddle. Over the past several years James developed a special partnership with his horse, Lucky, built on trust, patience, and mutual respect. Watching their bond grow has been a joy for everyone at High Hopes, and their connection has been a wonderful example of the unique relationship that can develop between horse and rider.

In addition to his partnership with Lucky, James’ accomplishments have been extraordinary. In just a matter of months, he progressed from riding on lead to becoming a fully independent rider. Beyond his riding skills, James now mounts and dismounts independently and takes pride in untacking his horse on his own. His confidence, determination, and willingness to take on new challenges have led to growth that has been inspiring to witness.

James’ journey is a testament to what can happen when hard work, perseverance, and the partnership between horse and rider come together.

Lily Zerkowski Volunteer

The Davison Youth Service Award honors a young volunteer who truly stands out for going above and beyond in service to our participants, horses, and staff. This year High Hopes is proud to recognize Lily Zerkowski as the recipient of this meaningful award.

Lily exemplifies these qualities in every way. Since joining the High Hopes volunteer team, Lily has become a dependable and valued presence in the barn. With a positive attitude and strong work ethic, she approaches every task with enthusiasm.

Whether she is cleaning stalls, preparing horses for lessons, helping ensure classes run smoothly, or pitching in at the end of a busy day, Lily consistently goes above and beyond. She carries herself with kindness, maturity, and quiet confidence.

Lily is always willing to lend a hand and support those around her.

Carlos Chandon Participant

The Patrick Moreno Sportsmanship Award was established in 1993 by Sis Gould in memory of Patrick Moreno, and honors a participant who exemplifies sportsmanship, encouragement, and resilience in the face of challenges.

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We’re excited to present this year’s award to Carlos Chandon. Carlos is often the first to greet staff, volunteers, and fellow participants, making time to check in, and share a laugh. Known for his sense of humor, infectious laugh, and knowledge of the latest sports news, Carlos has a special way of brightening the day of everyone he meets.

Carlos first participated in our therapeutic carriage driving program before transitioning to unmounted horsemanship, where he continues to build connections with both people and horses. Whether he is catching up with friends in the office, lending words of encouragement, or making sure the horses receive their fair share of attention, Carlos consistently demonstrates kindness, compassion, and a genuine care for others.

Through every challenge, Carlos maintains a positive attitude and an unwavering spirit that inspires those around him. His resilience, encouragement, and ability to make others feel seen embody the true meaning of sportsmanship.

SUMMER 2026

NEW AWARDS

Overabove Community Partner

Established this year, the Business Partner Award recognizes a company whose generosity, collaboration, and leadership has made a meaningful difference in furthering our work.

We are proud to present the inaugural award to Overabove, whose partnership with High Hopes has spanned more than two decades. Their support has taken many forms, from generous event sponsorships to invaluable in-kind design, branding, and project management services that have elevated our communications, annual appeals, and fundraising initiatives. Overabove has served as passionate ambassadors, helping introduce new audiences to the life-changing work happening at High Hopes.

What sets Overabove apart is a real connection and their genuine investment in our success. They approach every project with creativity, strategic insight, and a sincere belief in what we do. Their expertise has helped us communicate our impact more effectively, inspire greater engagement, and build meaningful relationships with donors, volunteers, and supporters.

Their influence extends far beyond the materials they design or the campaigns they help create. Through their advocacy, thoughtful guidance, and steadfast partnership, Overabove has helped amplify our voice and share the power of the horsehuman connection throughout our community.

Overabove’s partnership is a wonderful example of what can happen when a business invests not only its professional expertise, but also its heart. Their generosity, vision, and enduring commitment have made a lasting difference to our organization and the community we serve. We are profoundly grateful for their friendship, their leadership, and the many ways they continue to help advance our mission.

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Haylee Shipman Volunteer

The Above and Beyond Award is reserved for a volunteer whose dedication, generosity, and commitment extend far beyond the typical expectations of the role. It is presented when a volunteer truly stands out for the extraordinary ways they support High Hopes.

The inaugural recipient of this award is Haylee Shipman, who joined the High Hopes volunteer community at the end of 2024. In a short amount of time, Haylee has given more than 150 hours, becoming a dependable and familiar presence in our programs. She primarily volunteers as a horse handler in both riding and unmounted classes, and has also recently trained as a sidewalker and weekend feeder.

What makes Haylee especially deserving of this recognition is not simply the number of roles she has taken on, but the extraordinary generosity with which she gives her time. In an average week, Haylee is scheduled to volunteer three times, and she is often the first to say yes when additional support is needed. Whether filling in for extra classes, stepping up as a substitute, or coming to campus multiple times in a single day, Haylee consistently goes above and beyond to make sure participants, horses, and staff have the support they need.

Her reliability, flexibility, and wholehearted commitment have made her invaluable. We are incredibly grateful for her time, energy, and the care she brings to every role.

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Judith Cohen Volunteer & Participant

The Compassionate Equestrian Award: compassion by definition is more than just a recognition of another’s well-being. It is the desire to mitigate the negative, and take action to change what is wrong. At High Hopes, every interaction between horse and human is an opportunity to model empathy and compassion, and no one exemplifies this more than Judith Cohen.

Whether wielding her markers as our volunteer artist or donning her participant helmet, Judith has always known what science has recently revealed — horses are intelligent, sentient beings and the opportunity to partner with them is a gift. Each week, Judith ensures that several lucky horses are groomed (and scratched) to their heart’s desire, and is always looking out for ways we can improve our herd’s happiness.

She thoughtfully chooses the details of each interaction with “what does the horse need today” in mind — a ride is defined by what a horse physically needs, a grooming by what their body language expresses a like or a dislike for, or perhaps the weather says we do neither and instead we offer a cool bath for their comfort. Judith is an outstanding exmaple of how we can strive to engage with our horses in a a kind and respectful manner.

SUMMER 2026

What an incredible evening.

Bella Notte was a celebration of community, generosity, and the life-changing connection between horses and humans, and it would not have been possible without each and every one of you.

To our dedicated volunteers and staff, thank you for rolling up your sleeves and transforming our campus into a beautiful and inspiring space. To our sponsors and community partners, thank you for believing in our mission and helping bring this special event to life. And to every guest, donor, bidder, and paddle raiser, thank you for showing up with such generosity and heart.

CHAMPIONS OF HOPE

Lessons Carried Forward In the past year, we said goodbye to a beloved member of the High Hopes herd: Rolex.

Affectionately known as Roly or Roly-Poly, Rolex lived an extraordinary life. He joined the High Hopes herd in 2018 and spent eight years touching the lives of participants, volunteers, staff, and everyone fortunate enough to know him. With his beautiful chestnut coat, flaxen mane and tail, and signature white socks, he was certainly handsome. But it was his calm, kind nature that truly defined him and made him such an exceptional partner and friend.

Every lesson, Rolex showed up ready to work, quietly demonstrating his dedication to his riders. He had a remarkable ability to make participants feel safe, supported, and confident. Patient, steady, and trustworthy, Rolex was an ideal therapeutic riding horse, especially for riders developing new skills and taking important steps toward greater independence.

With Rolex, it wasn’t only the big milestones that mattered.

It was the quiet moments in between. He appreciated conversation before a ride, and words of praise during a lesson. And, of course, the scratches behind his ears afterward. If you knew Rolex, you knew exactly where he liked to be scratched, and he wasn’t shy about letting you know.

After retiring from our mounted program, Rolex continued sharing his gentle spirit through our horsemanship classes.

One of his favorite activities was participating in our Reading to Horses program, where he would quietly stand for participants as they read aloud, offering the same calm companionship he had always given.

As we reflect on Rolex’s life, we are reminded of the extraordinary partnership that can exist between horses and humans. Rolex had a gift for connecting with everyone he met. He gave his riders courage and the feeling that anything was possible. Through his kindness, patience, and quiet presence, he taught us the importance of trusting in one another, and that simple moments often mean the most.

Rolex will forever be woven into the fabric of the High Hopes community. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the confidence he inspired, and the countless memories he leaves behind. He will always hold a special place in our hearts.

With deep gratitude and love, The High Hopes Community Rolex in his younger years

The ultimate riding partner

A literacy liasion as a ‘retiree’

IMPACTFUL STORIES

Growing with Purpose Growth doesn’t always mean creating something entirely new. Sometimes it means listening carefully, recognizing a need, and responding with creativity, flexibility, and purpose.

Over the past year, we’ve been excited to expand and strengthen programs that reflect the evolving needs of our community. One of the most meaningful developments has been the return of our Veterans Program. Thanks to the enthusiasm shown at our recent Veterans Open House, we know there is a growing need for equine-assisted services that support those who have served our country. As the program evolves, we look forward to creating opportunities for veterans to build connection and well-being through meaningful partnerships with our horses.

Through the dedication of our team and the support of our community, we reinstated the Therapeutic Driving Program, expanding access to individuals who may not be able to ride while reconnecting High Hopes with a cherished part of its history. We have also introduced corporate team-building experiences that connect local businesses with our mission, expanded our Minis on the Move outreach program to bring the healing power of horses into the community, and brought back Community Riding Lessons, where every lesson helps support affordable access to our therapeutic programs.

Growth also means investing in the future of equine-assisted services beyond our own campus. This year, High Hopes was proud to host both the PATH Intl. Region 1 Conference and a PATH Intl. Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning Workshop, welcoming equine-assisted services professionals from across the country to learn, collaborate, and vitalize their skills. By sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and supporting continuing education, we are helping strengthen the entire equine-assisted services community.

Veterans Program returns

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PATH Intl. Region 1 Conference

As we continue to move forward, we remain grounded in the values that have guided High Hopes for more than 50 years.

We honor the programs and traditions that have shaped our organization while embracing new opportunities to meet the changing needs of those we serve. Every new initiative, every partnership, and every idea begins with the same question:

How can we better serve our community?

That commitment will continue to guide the future of High Hopes, one horse, one participant, and one connection at a time.

Therapeutic Driving Program reinstated

SUMMER 2026

INNOVATIVE PROGRAMS

Where Great Teams Grow What if your next leadership session didn’t happen in a conference room? At High Hopes, our horses help teams discover new ways to communicate, solve problems, and lead with confidence through experiential, ground-based activities unlike any traditional workshop.

Designed for businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community groups, our new Equine-Assisted Team Building program invites teams to step away from the office and into a unique, hands-on learning environment. Through professionally facilitated, ground-based activities with our horses, participants explore leadership, communication, trust, collaboration, emotional intelligence, and problemsolving in ways that are both engaging and memorable.

Horses respond honestly and authentically to human behavior, providing immediate feedback that encourages self-awareness, adaptability, and stronger relationships. The result is an experience that not only strengthens teams but also leaves participants with practical skills they can carry

back into the workplace.

Perhaps most importantly, every team-building experience creates a lasting impact beyond the participants themselves.

Proceeds directly support High Hopes’ equine-assisted services, helping ensure that children, adults, veterans, and families throughout our community continue to have access to life-changing programs.

By bringing people together with our horses, this new initiative strengthens organizations while helping strengthen our mission. It is another way High Hopes continues to grow with purpose, creating meaningful experiences that benefit both our community and those we serve.

To learn more or sign up, please contact our Wellness Instructor, Kim Severance, at: kseverance@highhopestr.org

Equine-Asssited Team Building with Sullivan Financial Services

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IMPACTFUL STORIES

Welcoming Veterans Back to High Hopes

16 Veterans learn about hoof care

At High Hopes, some of our greatest successes begin with people who believe in what’s possible. For the return of our Veterans Program, it began with a shared vision: to once again create a welcoming place where veterans could connect with one another, spend time with horses, and experience the healing power of community. Thanks to veteran and volunteer Carl Monti, our dedicated staff, and the generosity of donors, that vision has become a reality.

Earlier this year, Carl welcomed High Hopes to join him and fellow veterans for a breakfast gathering. It was a chance to connect, share stories, and introduce the many ways horses can support physical, and social well-being. The response was immediate — interest grew, conversations continued, and before long, High Hopes hosted a Veterans and Military Service Members Open House. Veterans, active-duty service members, and their families came to visit the farm, meet our horses, and experience the unique environment that makes our programs so special.

This program is made possible through the generosity of our supporters. Donations to High Hopes’ Veteran Program, as well as our High Hopes Fund and Scholarship Fund, allow us to provide scholarships and reduce financial barriers. It is a powerful reminder that every donation extends far beyond the individual gift.

As our Veterans Program continues to grow, we remain committed to creating a welcoming space where those who have served our country can find support, community, and the quiet wisdom that horses naturally provide.

If you are a veteran or military service member interested in joining the program, we invite you to contact our Program Coordinator, Saige Carroll, at scarroll@highhopestr.org.

We’d love to welcome you to High Hopes.

If you are interested in supporting, or becoming involved with program offerings, please contact our Advancement Director, Nicole Makos, at nmakos@highhopestr.org.

Today, what began around a breakfast table has grown into two weekly Veterans Program sessions, where participants spend time with one another, connect with our horses, and build a community rooted in trust and shared experiences.

SUMMER 2026

PHILANTHROPIC SOLUTIONS

Reintroducing the Scholarship Fund: Expanding Opportunity for Every Participant We believe that equine-assisted services should be accessible to all who can benefit from them. We are excited to shine a light on our Scholarship Fund — a fund that reflects our commitment to ensuring every participant can engage in our programs, regardless of financial circumstances.

For every lesson delivered, philanthropy plays a vital role.

The true direct cost of a High Hopes session is $334, yet families are invoiced an average of just $75, with many paying even less. Thanks to this subsidized tuition, participants save more than $9,600 annually — making consistent, meaningful engagement possible for so many individuals and families.

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Even with this built-in support, the need for additional financial assistance continues to grow. In Fiscal Year 2025-26, 55% of our weekly participants received financial aid, and this year we must raise $76,500 to meet those requested needs beyond our standard tuition subsidy.

The Scholarship Fund helps bridge this gap, ensuring that no participant is turned away due to financial hardship. It allows us to respond in real time — supporting individuals with disabilities, those managing long-term medical or emotional challenges, and families navigating complex financial realities.

Donors can make an impact in a way that feels meaningful to them — whether by sponsoring a single lesson, supporting an academic session, funding a full year of services, or contributing to the general financial aid pool.

Every gift to the Scholarship Fund helps more participants find their way into the arena — where healing, connection, and growth begin with the horse.

To learn more or make a gift, please visit: https://highhopestr.org/appeal/gift-of-access/

SPRING 2024 WANT MORE GIVING INFO?

Nicole Makos Advancement Director

nmakos@highhopestr.org

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

A Partnership That Transcends Business

18 The Bolles Family: Keith Jr., Lindsey, Jane, and Keith Sr.

For nearly five decades, Saybrook Home has been a cornerstone of the Connecticut shoreline. Family-owned and operating since 1977, the business has grown thoughtfully from its roots in Old Saybrook to new locations in Glastonbury and Cheshire, guided by enduring values of connection, generosity, and service.

Now led primarily by Keith Jr., with Jane and Keith Sr. continuing to support business operations, Saybrook Home reflects the strength of a business built on continuity and care.

Each new location has brought opportunities to broaden their impact, using their growing reach to support organizations and causes that serve people across the region.

Those values are deeply personal for the Saybrook Home family. Their daughter, Lindsey, has participated in High Hopes’ therapeutic programs, giving the family firsthand experience of the profound and lasting impact equineassisted services can have on an individual’s life. Seeing that impact up close has shaped their long-standing commitment to High Hopes and strengthened their belief in the mission.

At the center of this partnership is relationship. “It’s really the personal connection and relationship we’ve built,” Keith shared. That belief informs their continued commitment and speaks to a broader understanding of today’s nonprofit landscape. As public funding becomes increasingly limited, organizations like High Hopes increasingly rely on engaged partners to help ensure vital services remain accessible to those who need them most.

The Saybrook Home family has supported High Hopes in meaningful and varied ways, including gala leadership, instore fundraising initiatives, hands-on volunteering, and ongoing-advocacy. Members of the family have also served in leadership roles on the High Hopes Board of Trustees, helping guide the organization with the same care and thoughtfulness that define their business. As Keith Bolles Jr. shared, “The mission is most important to us. It’s been 30-plus years that we’ve been involved in some way, shape, or form.”

Saybrook Home’s support demonstrates that philanthropy is not a single gesture, but a long-term investment in people, purpose, and possibility. Their partnership is a powerful example of how businesses and families can help strengthen the fabric of the places they call home.

We are deeply grateful to the Saybrook Home family for their decades of generosity, leadership, belief in our mission, and for inspiring others to join in supporting work that makes a lasting difference.

SUMMER 2026

Office Volunteer

Facility & Barn

Sidewalker

Event Volunteer

Horse Leader

860.434.1974 | www.highhopestr.org | volunteer@highhopestr.org

A Tradition of Excellence For over 50 Years

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Horse Feeder

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36 TOWN WOODS ROAD OLD LYME, CT 06371