Come Inside the Barn
Let me introduce you to our Herd
Gigi is a 24-year old American Quarter Horse Mare
Gigi is a been there, done that kind of horse. She has been in the show ring competing in trail events, spent weekends on trails across three different states, and loves working in the arena. She is the largest of our herd at 15.2 hands. ​​​​
Smarty is a 16-year-old American Quarter Horse Mare
Smarty has been in the show ring, came from out west, and was used for some ranch work. She is what is referred to as the "Boss Mare" of the herd. She makes sure that the herd is safe and in line always. She is built solid and strong at 14.2 hands.
Charlie is an 18-year-old Miniature Horse Gelding
Charlie was pulled out of a "kill pen" in Texas by a horse sale barn in my area, C & C Equine; thank you for saving Charlie. He came to my farm to become one of the EmpowerStride teachers and to teach my granddaughters all about horses and how to properly care for our equine friends. He is loved by everyone who meets him. Charlie is the smallest of the herd at 29". ​​
Doc is a 26-year-old Quarter Horse Gelding
Doc was used extensively in Junior Rodeo events and competitions. He has developed Navicular and can no longer be used for rodeo events by his previous owner, Varner Farms. We are so lucky that our paths crossed; Doc was given to me as a generous gift from the Varner Family for our EmpowerStride programs.
Joker is a 10-year-old Gelding Pony
Joker is the newest member of the EmpowerStride Herd. He comes to us from a farm located outside of Pennsdale, Pa. He was used a pulling pony, but didn't love that job. His owner reached out knowing that he may be the perfect fit for our programs.
About Our Facilitator
Suzy Foresman, Equine Assisted Learning Certified
With 34 years of experience as an educator, I have dedicated my life to working with children. Throughout my career, I have held various roles, including teacher, literacy coach, principal, supervisor of curriculum, and mentor to many through my years in public education. My passion for teaching and helping others has always been a driving force. After retiring, I wanted something meaningful to fill my time, and that's when I founded EmpowerStride, a non-profit equine-assisted learning program. After spending countless hours researching the best way to provide therapeutic opportunities for women and children, I knew it would be vital to learn everything I could, so I enrolled in Equine Connections Academy for Equine Assisted Learning. I studied their programs, took the national certification exam, and successfully attained my EAL certification.
I've had the privilege of working with many individuals, helping them achieve their goals and reach their full potential. Everyone can succeed, and I'm committed to providing the support and guidance needed to make that happen for the participants of EmpowerStride. As someone who is a victim, I understand and can speak to the power of equine therapuetic experiences. I have been blessed to have had horses in my life that taught me to be the person I am today and for that I am forever thankful.
Outside of my work in education, I am also a wife, a mother of three boys, a mother-in-law to two incredible daughters, and a Gigi to four amazing grandchildren. I also share my life with four horses, two dogs, and a cat.
My love for horses has been a lifelong passion, and I have found that working with these magnificent animals brings me great joy and fulfillment. I look forward to sharing my passion in our serene environment with those who enter the barn doors of EmpowerStride.
