Healing Through Horses: Ridgebury Farm's Journey of Service

When Cole Miller speaks about Ridgebury Farm & Stables, his enthusiasm for the therapeutic riding facility is evident. While his days are spent managing IT operations at Libertas, his connection to this unique 56-acre nonprofit organization in Connecticut runs deep through family ties and a commitment to community service.

Located between Danbury and Ridgefield, Connecticut, Ridgebury Farm & Stables was established in 2021 by Miller's wife's family. The inspiration came after a family member experienced the benefits of therapeutic riding programs. When the opportunity arose to purchase a horse farm, the family saw potential to create something special – a comprehensive therapeutic riding center that would serve people of all abilities.

The farm's mission extends far beyond traditional equestrian services. As a nonprofit organization, Ridgebury Farm provides a variety of therapy services including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and psychotherapy, offered in both group and individual settings. "The mission is to provide therapy services to help children and adults of all different ages and abilities to be their most authentic selves," Miller shares.

Operating such an extensive facility requires significant community support. With 20-30 staff members and between 10-15 people living on the premises, the farm relies heavily on volunteers to help maintain its operations. The property houses not just horses and ponies, but also a menagerie of other animals including bunnies, sheep, goats, chickens, and ducks. Volunteers assist with animal care, facility maintenance, and therapy sessions, including serving as "walkers" who help ensure rider safety during therapeutic riding sessions.

The farm's commitment to year-round accessibility is made possible by both indoor and outdoor arenas, allowing them to offer therapy classes and riding lessons regardless of weather conditions. A newly renovated antique barn space has also expanded their offerings to include event hosting capabilities for weddings and other celebrations.

One of the farm's flagship events is the annual Farm Fete, held each September. This year's event marked their most successful gathering yet, drawing between 400-500 attendees from the local community. The festival featured catered food, entertainment, and a unique auction that showcased the farm's strong community ties. One notable auction item included a trip to Italy offered by a local community member, demonstrating the event's ability to bring together diverse members of the community in support of the farm's mission.

Several Libertas employees, including Chairman and Founder Gary Katcher and CEO Randy Saluck, showed their support for the initiative through individual donations. "I'm grateful for Libertas getting involved," Miller notes. "It's meaningful to see your workplace support a mission you're passionate about."

Looking ahead, the farm continues to expand its impact on the community. Miller, who moved to Connecticut with his wife almost two years ago to be closer to the farm, has seen firsthand how the facility has grown and evolved. They live on the premises, contributing to what Miller describes as "a close-knit community atmosphere that makes the farm truly special."

The success of Ridgebury Farm & Stables demonstrates the power of combining family vision with community support. As the facility continues to grow, opportunities for involvement expand as well. Whether through volunteering, attending events, or making donations, there are numerous ways for individuals and organizations to support the farm's mission of providing therapeutic services to those in need.

For Miller, the connection between his role at Libertas and his family's involvement with Ridgebury Farm represents a perfect blend of professional and personal pursuits. As both organizations continue to grow, the partnership between them serves as an example of how corporate success and community support can work hand in hand to create meaningful impact.

Those interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities or supporting Ridgebury Farm & Stables can find additional information on their website at ridgeburyfarm.com. Miller notes that volunteers are always welcome, with opportunities ranging from animal care to event support, making it easy for anyone to contribute to this worthy cause.