Berkshire HorseWorks Celebrates 10 Years Of Transforming Lives

The power of horses to help in healing humans is incontrovertible, as is the determination of Berkshire HorseWorks founder and executive director Hayley Sumner (profiled here). Ten years ago she manifested her vision and mission to transform lives through powerful interaction with horses. On Saturday, September 20, supporters and staff gathered at Home Farm in Lenox for the Berkshire Horseworks 10th anniversary gala. It was an opportunity to honor Sumner and the over 3,000 at-risk children, families, and veterans with mental health, literacy and behavior challenges who have benefited from Berkshire HorseWorks programs. Accessorized with cowboy boots and hats, guests enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and music provided by “The Berkshire Dreamers” band. Inside the barn, Massachusetts State Representative Smitty Pignatelli presented a state proclamation to Sumner and joined Mike Fallon of Copake Auction in running a paddle auction for vacations in Italy, Jackson Hole and other destinations, with proceeds going to support Equine Assisted programming at the ranch. During the auction activity, horses and clients paraded around the ring in a Walk of Resiliency. The evening concluded with a concert by The Opera Cowgirls.