Our Family Tree
Learn about the generous donors who have established charitable funds through Stark Community Foundation.
Photography by Mal McCrea Photo
For some, the world can feel defined by limitations. At Pegasus Farm, that sense shifts to what’s possible—building strengths, fostering independence and growing confidence.
Pegasus Farm is a place where individuals are seen for their abilities, and where that confidence stays with them long after they leave its gates.
Pegasus Farm began in 1986 when three Canton City School District special education teachers—including Doris Sweitzer, whose daughter Brenda has cerebral palsy and experienced the benefits of therapeutic riding in Cleveland—wondered how they could bring that same opportunity closer to home. Starting with just two horses, five riders and a backyard, they created an inspiring space where children with special needs could experience physical activity and recreation in a new way. By its second year, Pegasus Farm grew to serve 70 students.
Today, the 120-acre farm in Hartville is home to 34 horses and serves nearly 150 riders each week year-round through its heated indoor arena, outdoor spaces and trails.
The nonprofit has grown into one of the largest and most programmatically diverse therapeutic equestrian centers in the country, supporting individuals with a wide range of needs.
“I’m proud of how we’ve grown over the past 40 years,” shared Shelley Sprang, executive director of Pegasus Farm. “We’ve been intentional in staying true to our mission. We listen to the people we serve and respond to what they need.”
THERAPEUTIC EQUESTRIAN PROGRAM
At the heart of Pegasus Farm is Take Flight, its signature therapeutic equestrian program. Participants from the age of three through adulthood take part in weekly riding and unmounted horsemanship activities designed to support physical, motor, cognitive and social development. Lessons are led by trained instructors and supported by volunteers, with each rider thoughtfully paired with a horse that best fits their needs. Participants also learn how to groom and care for their horse, building both practical skills and meaningful connection.
One participant said, “My daily abilities have greatly improved because of riding. I can easily stand without holding on for short times – meaning I can towel off from stepping out of the shower without falling over. The bending activities benefit my balance greatly, and keep my core strong to not fall over when I must bend. My walking is stronger from riding.”
For those unable to ride, Pegasus Farm offers adaptive carriage driving, providing a similar sense of movement and independence in a safe, supportive setting. Using two- or four-wheel horse-drawn carts, participants strengthen core muscles, improve trunk control and experience the freedom of guiding a horse.
Therapeutic riding complements, not replaces, traditional therapies and supports individuals with needs including anxiety, trauma and speech delays.
“Participants will often practice their speech on their horse when they are too scared to practice with a person,” added Shelley.
Beyond physical benefits, the program helps riders build confidence, improve communication, develop patience and regulate emotions. Families travel from across Northeast Ohio to participate, often referred by medical providers or other families.
For one mother, Take Flight has been life changing.
“My daughter has become braver trying new things and is definitely more confident,”she added.
“Her interest in horses and riding has only grown stronger with Pegasus, which inspires her to keep learning.”
Riders pay a weekly fee, though it covers only about half of the true cost. Financial assistance is available to ensure access for families who need it.
ADULT DAY SERVICES
As riders grew older, families began asking an important question: what comes next? They wanted opportunities for their children to continue building independence, contribute to their community and lead meaningful lives.
In response, Pegasus Farm launched Wings in 2011, an adult day services program and certified provider through the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities. Wings offers community-based, integrated and vocational rehabilitation services for adults with developmental disabilities.
Participants take on hands-on roles as farm, stable and horticultural assistants, as well as work in retail through the farm’s store and gardens.
For one parent, the impact is both practical and personal. “I sit with my son and show him that what he makes at work actually covers his rent, and that’s a big accomplishment for him and our family.”
STORE AND GARDENS
In 2016, Pegasus Farm opened its Country Store and Gardens to expand opportunities for Wings participants. The store provides job training and employment while offering the community access to gluten-free and organic foods, seasonal produce and handmade goods. Participants help manage every aspect of the store and gain valuable workplace experience.
Adjacent to the store, the five-acre Wellness Garden produces fruits, vegetables and flowers grown by Wings participants.
Together, these spaces create a cycle of purpose: meaningful work for participants and high-quality, locally grown products for the community. All proceeds are reinvested into Pegasus Farm’s programs.
MILITARY AND FIRST RESPONDERS PROGRAM
Pegasus Farm’s reach also extends to veterans, active-duty military members and first responders.
The nonprofit established its Military and First Responders Program in 2007, and later partnered with local rotary clubs in 2017 to expand its offerings to include counseling, exercise and social connection.
These programs are designed to help participants navigate stress, build relationships and find a sense of support and belonging. Like all of Pegasus Farm’s work, the focus remains on meeting people where they are and responding to their needs.
LOOKING AHEAD
As Pegasus Farm looks to the future, its impact continues to be powered by volunteers. With more than 120 active volunteers contributing over 13,000 hours last year, they are essential to every program.
“They are why we can do what we do six days a week,” said Shelley.
With continued growth ahead, Pegasus Farm is working to expand its volunteer base while planning for the next 40 years. A second indoor arena and meeting space are already in development, and Pegasus is also piloting a new adult day support program this year focused on social interaction and enrichment. Programs for foster children and vulnerable youth are also expanding.
To celebrate 40 years of impact, Pegasus Farm will host a series of anniversary events, including a first on-site gala on October 3.
Shelley added, “Pegasus Farm isn't just a place; it’s a community. Whether you have been with us since 1986 or just joined us, thank you for your support. Here’s to 40 more years of changing lives.”
To learn more, visit pegasusfarm.org