Reorganization Allows Magical Meadows To Continue Mission
Posted
Daniel Riordan-driordan@timesuniononline.com
A new direction, new facility and renewed enthusiasm are what Magical Meadows is all about. The not-for-profit’s founder, Tammy Stackhouse, gave up any ownership of it and now a board of directors will guide its path. But Stackhouse remains fully involved as the executive director. “We feel Tammy is a missionary to the special needs community,” said Pastor Carl Adams, who is one of six directors. The others are Char Garber, Cindy Hilgenberg, Steven Elder, Adam Reed and Jenny O’Hara. Reed is Stackhouse’s son. Elder, who works for Cardinal Services, said Magical Meadows is a perfect demonstration of what Cardinal tries to do, to involve people with special needs in the community. Garber and Hilgenberg have special needs children of their own. Garber’s daughter, Brooke, 23, and Hilgenberg’s son, Cory, 22, have improved confidence, motor skills and socialization thanks to Magical Meadows. Cory was the first rider of the program. Now he volunteers whenever he can. “For Brooke, it gives her an increased sense of self,” said Garber. A move from the old facility put the future of Magical Meadows in some question. But Stackhouse said the restructuring, as well as the purchase of a 7.25-acre tract of land, has made the Magical Meadows’ future bright. Work continues to progress on an indoor riding arena and activity center. “For many this is their main way to socialize,” said Garber. The expansion of the facility would allow for riders to enjoy the program year-round. Classes began June 11 and continue to go strong thanks to the support of volunteers. Stackhouse especially noted the efforts of volunteers Shelby Dobson and Olivia Koorey. Magical Meadows is always looking for more volunteers and aid in creating the new facilties. They also received help from local farmer Max Tom on getting fencing at the new land up. A partnership with Bowen Center also was formed. Fundraising efforts like the Derby Days event in May will continue to bring in funds for the program. In a bit of poetic irony, the first horse of Magical Meadows, the aptly named Magic, passed away right before the new facility opened. Stackhouse said she felt the horse hung on long enough to know that the program would continue. And for Stackhouse, the future of the program was vital for her as well. “My biggest special need is trying to live without these kids or this program in my life,” said Stackhouse. “I realized that these kids were helping me, as much or if not more, than we were helping them.” Those interested in volunteering or learning more about Magical Meadows can call Stackhouse at 574-265-3085.
