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Equine Discounts recently partnered with the Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA) to offer a John Deere ZTrak™ mower in their January Stallion Season Auction. The auction winner of the ZTrak™, Scott Mawaka, had a generous plan in mind for his take-home prize. Scott, an avid fan of racing and a minority owner of Thoroughbreds, kindly donated the mower to an equine-assisted therapy organization, Hope Meadows.
Located in northeast Ohio, Hope Meadows was founded by Anne Kichurchak and Michelle Togliatti. The non-profit organization strives to transform lives through equine-assisted mental health services and life skills programs. Each specialized treatment team consists of a mental health specialist, an equine specialist, and a horse. This team works together to create a healing environment for individuals facing challenges such as behavior disorders, substance abuse, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and depression.
Scott was introduced to equine therapy through alcohol recovery, and he philanthropically supports many behavioral and emotional health programs. “A friend brought me to Hope Meadows just prior to attending the TCA auction,” said Scott. “Hope Meadows had just purchased the farm where they keep their horses and hold customer programs. Although the farm has a long-range capital plan to invest in its development, they are in short-term need of resources to maintain the grounds, building, and horses. The mower will be of great benefit in maintaining their fields.”
With 20 acres and 12 horses, the mower will be put to plenty of use. “By allowing us to mow more efficiently, we can redirect our focus towards our core mission: providing mental health services through equine-assisted therapy,” says Founder and Executive Director of Hope Meadows, Michelle Togliatti. “This donation truly exemplifies the community’s support in advancing our cause, and we are immensely grateful for this game-changing contribution.”
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