We’re not horsing around. Lothlorien Therapeutic Riding Center has partnered with sasi to continue its mission to “assist individuals to develop their highest potential through therapeutically based equine activities.”
The Board of Directors for each nonprofit organization approved the move last month. The affiliation officially began on June 28.
“We are excited to welcome Lothlorien into the sasi community as an affiliate,” said sasi President and CEO Jeff Paterson. “We will honor Lothlorien’s rich legacy by continuing to offer safe, accessible, and supportive riding experiences to people in our community.”
While this is a big change, much of what has made Lothlorien so special to the community for the past 42 years will remain. The center is keeping its name, its instructors, its beautiful, 10-acre property on Reiter Road, and its mission.
Sasi was in the unique position to offer stability, expanded supports, and opportunities for growth to Lothlorien, since it already operates High Hurdles Therapeutic Riding Center in Sardinia.
“We are confident that sasi has the knowledge, capacity and commitment to preserve Lothlorien’s 42-year mission of providing therapeutic riding experiences for people with disabilities,” said Kathleen Miller, outgoing chairperson of the Lothlorien Board of Directors. “We are grateful to sasi for stepping up to keep Lothlorien strong and active for another 42 years and beyond.”
Shelby Dytschkowskyj, sasi’s director of equine assisted services, has led High Hurdles since 2021 and will now oversee Lothlorien, as well.
“This transition is a positive and meaningful step forward, and one I’m personally committed to,” said Shelby Dytschkowskyj, sasi’s director of equine assisted services. “Over the past year and a half, I’ve had the privilege of being involved with LTRC, working more closely with the program over the past six months. During this time, I’ve gained a deep understanding of its daily operations — and, more importantly, the heart of what makes it so special: the people, the horses, and the profound impact on our riders and their families.”