Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm
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- During the 1960's-1970's Richard Donovan built Ironstone Farm and bred, raised, and trained thoroughbred horses.
- In the 1970's groups of children with special needs made field trips to the farm.
- in 1983 Challenge Unlimited began to offer therapeutic riding to individuals with disabilities as a non-profit organization. All services were donated by the farm. Its mission was "..to provide effective therapy to people with physical, mental and emotional disabilities, using horses and a working farm atmosphere." as well as "...to involve people in helping the community through volunteer services in a working farm environment," and "...to provide a wholesome, healthy and educational environment for young people of all abilities in which to learn life skills through horse-related actiivities.
- from 1983-1987 Challenge Unlimited had received tax exempt status, and established programs with both the National Birth Defects Center/Genesis Fund and Massachusetts Special Olympics. Ironstone Farm was the first Massachusetts organization to host a Special Olympics Equestrian Event.
- In 1994 a Pyhsical Therapy Building was built for Challenge Unlimited Programs.
- By 1996 Began A public school contract with Lowell for 400 clients.
- In 1999 700 clients used the facitilies.
- In 2002 Special Olympics Hall of Fame.
- From 2007-2008 A new indoor arena was built and abutting property bought to develop after-school programs.
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