SURRY, NH — Freedom Reins Therapeutic Riding Center hosted a Veterans Day fundraiser on Sunday, teaming up with 98.7 Wink Country to raise funds for a new indoor riding arena. The event, held at the Surry facility, drew crowds from noon to 3 p.m., offering free lunch and games while promoting the center’s mission of helping individuals through equine-assisted therapy.

Radio personality Mark Healy of Mark in the Morning on broadcasted live, even conducting part of his segment on horseback to showcase the organizations unique programs. The broadcast spotlighted the center’s commitment to providing therapeutic riding for individuals with physical, emotional, and sensory challenges.

Freedom Reins is the only therapeutic riding center within 50 miles of Keene and plays a crucial role in offering adaptive activities year-round. However, unpredictable weather has limited its programming, sparking a need for an indoor arena. The center expanded in May 2022 by acquiring five additional acres, with plans to build a covered facility that would ensure consistent access to its services, especially during winter.

The new facility is essential for the center’s growth and service continuity, as similar programs in Southern Vermont and Southwestern New Hampshire have closed, leaving Freedom Reins as the primary resource in the area for equine therapy.

Freedom Reins is actively pursuing grants and donations to fund the arena project and is calling on community members for support through donations and volunteer work. Those interested in contributing to the center’s vision can find more information at www.frnh.org/indoorarena.

This event was made possible by the generous support of Monadnock Media Group’s sponsors: Faith’s Toyota Ford in Westminster, VT, Savings Bank of Walpole, More than a Thrift Store in Keene, and Runnings in Hinsdale.