Equine Clinics Bring New Learning to Winslow

Winslow was excited to recently host two equine clinics on our campus, welcoming both the community and our own team to explore new ways of connecting with horses.

Nicole Berkholzer, Equine Behavioral & Communication Specialist, and Megan Dushin, Masterson Method MMCP, MMES, each presented, demonstrated, and led hands-on weekend courses open to the public. Both clinics focused on fostering a deeper connection with horses and building a better understanding of our equine partners.

“I love that both of these clinicians bring awareness to the horses’ body language and give them a voice while working with them in a compassionate way,” said Stacy Lenz, Winslow’s Program Director. “The benefits of their techniques are endless and are being incorporated into Winslow’s programming.”

Through these clinics, Winslow continues to expand opportunities for education, collaboration, and compassionate horsemanship—values at the heart of everything we do.

Golfing for Good: Two Winslow Fundraisers a Hole-in-One 

Winslow is celebrating a banner year on the greens, with not one but two successful golf fundraisers in 2025! Together, these events raised more than $134,000 to support Winslow’s mission of empowering individuals through therapeutic programs with horses.

On June 12, 2025, George Gnad, Josh Simon, and Matt Victor—husband of Winslow’s own Janet Victor—hosted the 5th Annual Tri-State CRE Charity Golf Classic at Knoll West Country Club in Boonton, NJ. Their dedication and the generosity of participants helped raise an incredible $80,000+ for Winslow.

Then, on August 4, 2025, Winslow’s very own Healing With Horses Golf Outing teed off at West Hills Country Club in Middletown, NY. With the support of 25+ sponsors and 80 golfers, this fun-filled day brought in over $54,000 for Winslow’s programs.

"We extend our heartfelt thanks to the organizers, sponsors, golfers, and volunteers who made both events such a tremendous success," said Executive Director, Sue Ferro. "Your generosity helps Winslow continue providing life-changing experiences for our participants and their families."

Winslow Hosts Third Horse Show in 12 Months

On Saturday, September 13th, Winslow proudly held its third horse show within the past year. The event showcased another exciting competitive performance by three Quadrille Teams and introduced the first-ever Winslow Gymkhana, featuring both exhibition and traditional divisions.

“We were so blown away by all participants,” shared Program Director, Stacy Lenz. “While the Quadrille Teams all performed the same pattern, each brought their own creative interpretation. It was also wonderful to welcome back former staff member Judy Lalley as our Judge, and we couldn’t have had such a successful day without the support of so many of our volunteers. It was a great day!”

Keep an eye out on social media for photos and click below to see the Quadrille Performances from this show and the previous one as well.  Thank you to the Orange County Youth Bureau for largely funding Winslow's Quadrille Teams!

Adult Day Program: Always on the Go!

The Adult Day Program has been so busy these past few months that it would take an entire newsletter to share it all! Ever wonder what their days look like? They’re filled with a wonderful mix of creativity, learning, and fun.

From Gardening with Kerry, Crafts with Kathy, Art with Pam, and Music with Jackie, to food shopping with Dawn before cooking with Rob and Fran (and yes—they’re amazing cooks!), the group stays engaged and active. They also enjoy grooming horses and practicing leading skills in the barn, raising chicks and collecting eggs, planting gardens, harvesting produce, and turning it into delicious meals.

And when they’re not busy at Winslow, you might find them out bowling, at the movies, or taking walks in nature. The group truly makes the most of every day!

This month’s schedule brings a mix of fresh offerings along with returning favorites, so there’s something for everyone.  Click below for more info!

Do you have a class you’d love to share in our Wellness Center? We’re always looking to expand our programs. Reach out to our Wellness Coordinator, Jaclyn Sinclair, at jaclyn@winslow.org to learn more.  

Volunteer Spotlight: Kathy Viken

Kathy Viken joined Winslow in November 2020, right in the midst of COVID. “I love volunteering, have a passion for horses, and helping others!” Kathy shared.

Her love for horses began early—she grew up on a Shetland pony farm. “My love for horses never left, and I started up with horses again in my mid-forties.” In addition to horses, Kathy has a special fondness for donkeys. When Eeyore and Faith joined Winslow in 2023, she began working with them and thoughtfully included our Adult Day Program members in their care.

Kathy first started volunteering in the barn but was later introduced to Dayhab, where her role truly blossomed. “The Dayhab group loves having Kathy as their special volunteer,” shared Day Program Specialist, Rebecca Bonomo. “She tirelessly looks for and creates crafts that are not only cute, but also appropriate for challenging dexterity and creative tendencies. Kathy recently got her dog, Tigger, certified as a Therapy Pet, and the group loves reading to him and spending time with him.”

Volunteer Coordinator, Elissa Velez, added: “Kathy is a volunteer with so many levels of dedication. In addition to her endless commitment to our Dayhab program, she continues to educate herself with regular lessons and has helped us connect with other important community organizations and professionals. We are beyond grateful for her time, hard work, and commitment to our mission.”

Thank you, Kathy, for all that you do—for Winslow, for our participants, and for our animals. We are so lucky to have you (and Tigger!) as part of our herd.

Welcome to Our New Volunteers!!!