Pegasus Farm celebrates 40 years in Hartville

Pegasus Farm, a therapeutic equestrian center at 7490 Edison St. NE in Hartville, officially kicked off its “40 Years Forward” celebration Saturday, Jan. 28.

Founded in 1986, Pegasus Farm has grown into a sanctuary where barriers are broken, potential is realized and life-changing connections are made. About 50 supporters gathered to begin celebrating four decades of empowerment and strength.

“As Pegasus Farm marks its 40th anniversary, we are grateful for the founders, supporters, volunteers and staff whose dedication shaped our mission,” Executive Director Shelley Sprang said. “Their commitment allows us to serve thousands today. We have a bright future ahead. We remain focused on expanding our impact and continuing to empower individuals of all abilities for another 40 years.”

Pegasus Farm’s mission is to create a community that holistically supports and empowers people with diverse needs through therapeutic equestrian programs, vocational services, and recreational and social activities. The organization is a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International Premier Accredited Center.

A full slate of anniversary celebrations is planned throughout 2026 for donors, volunteers and participants. Events open to the public include a Community Open House on June 13; the Annual Student Horse Show on Aug. 22; the 40th Anniversary Gala on Oct. 3; and the 2026 Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 5. All events will be held at Pegasus Farm.

Pegasus Farm offers a wide range of activities, including camps, drill team, driving, equine-facilitated experiential learning, grooming and tacking, groundwork, recreational riding, therapeutic riding, vaulting, veterans programs and vocational training. Services support individuals with a variety of disabilities and conditions, including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, PTSD, brain injuries, developmental disabilities and sensory impairments, among others.

Community members can also participate through the “400 for 40” campaign, which seeks 400 donors to contribute $100 or more toward a $40,000 grassroots fundraising goal. Proceeds support therapeutic riding, vocational services and horse care. Donors will be recognized on the Pegasus Farm commemorative 2026 anniversary website and in other ways. Information is available at pegasusfarm.org/donate-now.

To support long-term sustainability, Pegasus Farm has established the Legacy 40 Society, which focuses on planned giving through wills, trusts or beneficiary designations. Members are invited to an annual Legacy Brunch and receive permanent recognition in the organization’s history. Planned Giving Packets can be requested by emailing larry@pegasusfarm.org.

New 40th anniversary merchandise, including T-shirts, mugs and tote bags, is available at the Pegasus Farm Country Store. The store and gardens are located next to the therapeutic center at 7656 Edison St. NE in Hartville. For information, call 330-935-2300, ext. 109.

Donald Schenck, a co-founder of Pegasus Farm and a nonvoting board member, said the organization’s impact continues to grow.

“I am so glad that we started this endeavor in the Hartville-Canton-Akron area,” Schenck said. “The people here were so receptive, and so many lives are being helped – children, people with disabilities, first responders, veterans, older adults and even the volunteers themselves.”

Updates, a dedicated 40th anniversary page and a commemorative video are available at pegasusfarm.org/40thanniversarypage.

“Pegasus Farm isn’t just a place; it’s a community,” the organization said in a statement. “Thank you for being the wind beneath our wings. Here’s to 40 more years of changing lives as we look 40 Years Forward.”

For anniversary updates, visit Pegasus Farm’s website or email larry@pegasusfarm.org.