one by one®: Whisper Hill Clydesdales Special Needs
As Whisper Hill Clydesdales Special Needs gets ready to celebrate its 20th anniversary, it continues to raise money for a permanent home for its animals. That’s why Sue Reich, head volunteer, was happy to receive a one by one grant so all money from sales of the coffee mugs for a cause could go directly to the campaign.
“We sell other branded merchandise to also raise money but wanted a special item to commemorate the 20th anniversary,” said Reich. “We’re planning a large fundraising event in April and have already started selling the mugs to promote it.”
Animals have the power to heal
While the organization started with a team of four Clydesdales, it now has about 60 animals, including other horses, goats, donkeys and sheep. It is training a new team of Clydesdales to pull a wheelchair accessible wagon. In the meantime, it transports some of the other animals to locations (like nursing homes) to offer group therapy through petting zoos to older adults, veterans, wounded warriors, and people with special needs.
Whisper Hill Clydesdales Special Needs currently houses its animals on a rented farm. Once it has its own farm, it will be able to offer one-on-one therapy and more family events. Reich volunteers her time because it’s rewarding to witness the unique way animals can help people. Tim Wiskow, executive director, shares the following story often as an example.
“My favorite story is about an older couple at one of our petting zoos,” said Wiskow. “The husband was pushing his wife in a wheelchair, and he started crying. When we asked him why, he said it was the first time since his wife had suffered a stroke that she had spoken. It gives me goosebumps every time I share the story.”
Events with animals supplement sales of mugs for a cause
In addition to offering accessible wagon rides and therapeutic petting zoos at no cost, the organization uses its animals for fundraising. It takes a six-pony merry-go-round to area events for children to ride. It also offers pony visits for birthday parties and other events for children.
A note from Cheryl
Animals have a special power to connect with people. We’re glad to know that connections are also made possible through coffee mugs for a cause. If you’re interested in a one by one grant, visit onebyone.4imprint.com.