Holds annual fund raiser this weekend, the Hoe-Down
By Kim Chiomento, Staff Writer, The Times
POCOPSON — Faced with the challenges associated with raising funds for facility upgrades, timely adherence to Township code requirements, all while continuing to serve area special-needs children; are just a few of the hurdles that made 2014 a very challenging year for The Barn at Spring Brook Farm. During an interview this week, Barn Founder, Mary Beth Drobish, happily reported that “The Barn’s future is a bright one, thanks to the very hard work and collaboration of many.”
This Saturday, October 25th, The Barn will be celebrating and investing in its future by hosting its annual “Hoe-Down” fundraiser; a very important event that generates over one-third of The Barn’s funding.
The popular Hoe-Down features a blue Grass Band, impressive silent and live auctions, delicious food and open bar. Attire is casual; denim, boots and barn attire are encouraged. Drobish says, “We are just so pleased to have worked things out with Pocopson Township and to report fall fun is alive and well at the Barn. Going forward, we maintain a very positive view of the future.”
The Barn has a long history of serving children with disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, offering them an opportunity to participate in animal-assisted activities. Drobish says, “We have found activities for every child, regardless of abilities, through creative approaches. As a result of their participation, the children are able to become contributing members of the Barn Family. Equally amazing are the animals’ responses and demeanor around the kids; they just love working with them. It is absolutely a win-win.”
Another facet of the Barn’s success is that many of the children visiting have been receiving care their entire lives. But, when visiting the Barn, the reverse is true: the children now become the care givers, and for many, it is the first time in their lives that this opportunity has presented itself.
According to Barn staff, the therapeutic effects of this on the children’s outlook, esteem and communication abilities is incredible. Drobish explains, “We truly care about every child and they are made to feel welcome, special and successful when visiting with us. The key factor in this special equation are the Barn’s incredible volunteers, they do amazing work.”
To support The Barn and learn more about its history, programs, hours/months of operation, and needs, please visit: www.springbrook-farm.org -or- call (610) 793-7037.
