As we celebrate 20 years of The Barn, we do so with deep gratitude for everyone who has shaped our story—those who built our foundation and those newly joining our Barn family who will help define our future. The story of The Barn is a bit like a fairy tale. Its evolution over the last 20 years can really be described as magical. One woman’s dream was brought to reality through the selfless, giving acts of so many truly special people. People who wanted to make a difference in the lives of children with disabilities through the powerful connection of animals and nature. Together they created a space that is warm, deeply welcoming, beautifully inclusive, and unlike anywhere else.

We have met so many wonderful new families who are so thankful that a place like The Barn exists. They never imagined their child would be able to go to a week of summer camp, walk a horse, feed a pot belly pig or plant a garden. These families face so many challenges every day, but they do so with unbelievable grace. Their hearts are filled with so much love and they have infinite patience. They are such wonderful champions for their children day in and day out…they truly are heroes. We hope that Barn visits make their days a little brighter. These families are what make The Barn such a special place. We look forward to 20 more years honoring a dream through hooves, hearts and hands! Thank you for being a part of our story!

To Learn More About This Very Special Award, Watch the NBC 10 Feature Story 

• Thank you so much NBCUniversal for this incredibly generous grant and for coming out to visit The Barn. Your beautiful piece captured some very special moments with our AMAZING children and families. We are truly grateful for everyone at NBCUniversal and NBC 10, especially Yukare and Manny. From the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU!
• To watch the interview please visit this link:  NBC 10 Barn Story

Robert D. “Bob” McNeil, one of the Barn’s earliest and most loyal advisors and supporters, passed on April 13 after a decade long bout with cancer. Our Barn family will sorely miss his strong commitment to our mission and his attention to every detail of our organization’s work. Bob’s dedication to the Barn began as one of our founder’s initial sounding boards and trusted mentors and his commitment was so strong that he continued his support in the final weeks of his life. Bob’s wife, Jennifer, and his children always matched his support and enthusiasm for the Barn, volunteering in multiple capacities to further our mission and contributing to our growth.

We will miss Bob, but his spirit will endure through his example, and also through his very special family.