HORSE POWER

Lake Forest pioneer in equine-assisted therapies celebrates 25 years of transforming lives through the healing presence of horses.

AS A YOUNG LAKE FOREST COLLEGE GRADUATE contemplating her future, Diana Schnell first considered a career in physical therapy. Instead, she pursued a graduate degree in business and went on to take leading roles in health care, never imagining that her life’s journey would soon combine all of those interests.

But that’s exactly what happened when Schnell co-founded Lake Forest’s Equestrian Connection (EC).

Now one of the nation’s leading providers of equine-assisted therapy, the organization celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, culminating in its 20th annual Marty’s Barn Party on October 17.

Often called “horse therapy,” equine-assisted therapy uses horses in therapeutic activities that help people to achieve a wide range of emotional, behavioral, physical, and social goals.

Schnell and her late husband, Bill, became believers in the power of such therapies after witnessing their impact on their two young sons, identical twins born with severe disabilities.

“The boys so enjoyed the movement on horseback, even though when they first began, they could barely sit up,” Schnell recalls.

The therapy helped the twins better connect with their bodies, and with assistance, begin walking. But observing the impact horse therapy had on individuals with mental health issues and behavioral challenges further galvanized the Schnells’ determination to broaden access by launching Equestrian Connection.

“There’s been no turning back ever since,” says Schnell.

Situated on 16 green acres just off Bradley Road in Lake Forest, EC now offers more than a dozen programs serving children and adults with a wide range of needs. Its work is supported by professional therapists, certified instructors, and more than 250 volunteers.

Programs range from hippotherapy, therapeutic riding, and mental health services to job-skills training and a Reading Confidence and Comprehension Equine Program. Additional offerings include field trips, team building, massage therapy, Veteran Reconnect, and special celebrations.

From its inception, EC has ensured that program fees are based upon need, giving families with limited resources the same access to care as those who have more ample funds.

“One third of our clients and families need additional assistance financially,” says Schnell. “Many have multiple family members with special needs or who are veterans with issues that can be helped through equine assisted therapies.”

Then there are the horses themselves.

“It’s no secret that horses cost money,” Schnell says, noting that the organization spends roughly $6,000 per year to care for each of the 24 horses currently in its stables.

Providing for the horses, along with infrastructure, equipment, and other program-related needs, means EC must raise more than $1 million annually to stay true to its mission.

Marty’s Barn Party is EC’s signature fundraising event. Named for former board member Martin Domitrovich, this year’s party will feature entertainment by Liam Sheridan and Moon Taxi, an open bar sponsored by Pioneer Tavern Group and Tighthead Brewing, plus live and silent auctions.

“Our goal is to raise over $500,000,” she says, “all in support of the important work we do.”

But for Schnell, the most meaningful measure of Equestrian Connection’s success isn’t the number of years it has been operating or the money it has raised. It’s the moments that might otherwise never have happened.

“We have seen some people take their first steps, heard others speak their first words, and still others find pathways to deal with depression, overcome anxiety, and more,” she says. “So while we are thrilled to have reached the 25-year milestone, it doesn’t stop there. We not only want to continue doing everything we are doing, but hope to expand our outreach and services as we continue uncovering needs in the disability community that are still unmet.”