Because No One Should have to Suspend Hippotherapy Due to Weather

Every year, Acorn Hill EAAT Inc. is forced to suspend Hippotherapy (therapy on horseback) and all equine-assisted services for clients because of long, harsh Minnesota winters. Sometimes, up to six months. Treatment programs need to be consistent. By establishing the Paul Peterson Arena, Acorn Hill will be able to provide year-round treatment for children and adults with physical and emotional special needs.

From Tragedy to Triumph

30 years ago, Kelly (Ries) Peterson survived a near-fatal car accident when she was struck by a drunk driver. Both legs and her lower jaw were broken. She also suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). During surgery, her lungs filled with fluid. Things looked grim.

After spending eleven days in a coma, Kelly woke up on December 27, 1988. Her first thought? How cool would it be to help a child who is unable to walk get onto the back of a horse? Kelly would devote her life to making that happen.

In August of 2016, Acorn Hill EAAT Inc.  was granted official 501(c)3 status. Her dream was realized. Kelly and her team have served all types of people with special needs ever since.

Last year, they started work on a pilot program to add Mental Health Services in 2020…

Then the Unthinkable Happened

On February 29, 2020, Kelly and Ty Peterson’s 18-year-old son Paul was in a freak snowmobile accident. His parents and local medics did their best to save him, but by the time the helicopter arrived, Paul was gone.

Paul Peterson was beloved by his family, community, friends, and fellow students. It is a profound loss, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.


Working with Renewed Purpose

As the Peterson family and the staff of Acorn Hill cope with grief, they also continue their much-needed work. Acorn Hill is ready to roll out new Mental Health and Grief Recovery Services. But all equine-assisted activities or therapies are desperately needed year-round.

Help Establish the Paul Peterson Arena

        -    A covered arena is estimated to cost $130,000
        -    Heating, Electrical, and Lighting is expected to cost an additional $15,000
        -    Plumbing and Accessibility Ramps/Lifts are another $8,000

Your tax-deductible donations will help Acorn Hill EAAT Inc. build a covered and heated arena so they NEVER have to suspend equine-assisted services again due to weather.

Heartfelt Thanks

Thank you for your generous donations, support, and prayers.

Please consider sharing this cause with friends on Facebook, Twitter, and via email.

Credentials

Acorn Hill EAAT Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit therapeutic horseback riding facility that provides Equine Assisted Activities or Therapies (EEA/T) and Hippotherapy treatment for children and adults with special needs in Motley, MN. Our facility is staffed with PATH International certified instructors and trained volunteers. Hippotherapy treatment is combined with traditional licensed Physical, Occupational, and Speech Language therapy.