Olympian Jessica Springsteen and Wembley Farm Host Successful GallopNYC Fundraiser
Olympian Jessica Springsteen and Wembley Farm Host Successful GallopNYC Fundraiser
GallopNYC Founder Alicia Kershaw, event co-host Jessica Springsteen and GallopNYC Advisory Board Member Sarah Maslin Nir. GallopNYC Executive Director Jennie Bucove looks on. Photo by Snap Photo and Cinema
New York — Feb. 28, 2025 — GallopNYC, the largest therapeutic horsemanship program in New York City, held a successful fundraising event in Wellington, Florida, on Feb. 13. The event was graciously co-hosted by Olympian Jessica Springsteen and Wembley Farm, home base of Olympic medalist Norman Dello Joio, his wife Jeannie, their son, top FEI rider Nick Dello Joio and their daughter Daniella.
The evening brought together equestrians, philanthropists and supporters of GallopNYC’s mission to empower individuals through the transformative power of horses. Funds raised from this event will directly support GallopNYC’s programming, ensuring that more than 450 riders and unmounted participants weekly—ranging from individuals with disabilities to veterans, seniors, first responders and trauma survivors—continue to receive essential therapeutic services.
“Our work is about more than just horseback riding,” said GallopNYC Executive Director Jennie Bucove. “It’s about fostering independence, resilience and well-being for people of all backgrounds. Many people do not have the privilege of access to horses. This event was a testament to the generosity of the equestrian community, as our supporters chose to extend the power of horses to change lives to a wider community.”
GallopNYC operates with the support of more than 200 dedicated weekly volunteers who assist with lessons and barn operations. As every lesson is underwritten—participant fees only cover about half the actual costs—GallopNYC ensures accessibility by offering substantial financial aid, allowing many to participate at no cost.
GallopNYC’s Impact and Innovation
With PATH Int’l-certified instructors leading therapeutic and recreational lessons, donations and funds raised at the event allow GallopNYC to provide a range of specialized programs, including:
Pony Club is a structured, social skills and confidence-building program for children and teens (and their families) with autism.
Veterans receive free riding sessions and a new weekly unmounted group program in partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). GallopNYC has plans for expanded veteran support, including an inpatient detox program and a family-focused initiative.
GallopNYC’s Job Skills Program is a nine-month initiative preparing young adults with disabilities for employment.
GallopNYC offers a free program for seniors 65 and older. Participants have the opportunity to socialize and learn new skills by working with our horses and volunteering with our riders. Seniors learn to leadwalk and sidewalk, becoming invaluable volunteers in our therapeutic riding lessons.
Plans are in the works to add a GallopNYC Domestic Violence Program to provide therapeutic support for survivors of domestic violence and their families.
Pioneering Research in Equine Therapy
Fundraising also helps GallopNYC initiate groundbreaking research initiatives to address gaps in studies of equine-assisted programs including:
More than one-third of GallopNYC participants self-identify as having autism spectrum disorder (ASD). An Autism Study would be the first-of-its-kind research project incorporating video capture and machine learning to provide objective, measurable analysis of equine-assisted therapy’s long-term impact. GallopNYC is in partnership discussions with a significant autism organization and hospital group.
Expanding for the Future
GallopNYC is actively raising funds to develop a covered arena and new barn, which will allow for evening sessions for participants and year-round programming, uninterrupted by inclement weather. The expanded capacity will help meet increasing demand and elevate the organization’s impact.
This remarkable event at Wembley Farm not only raised critical funds but also strengthened awareness of GallopNYC’s mission among an influential equestrian audience.
GallopNYC extends heartfelt gratitude to Jessica Springsteen, the Dello Joio family and all attendees, sponsors and supporters who made this event a resounding success.
Silent auction items included Parlanti Boots, Laurencea bag, a Cabo vacation, a Roberto Tedesco Horse so Sable Island print and more. GallopNYC Board member Lauren Reischer, Jessica Springsteen, GallopNYC Rising Professional Group member Lucy Deslaurier, GallopNYC Executive Director Jennie Bucove and GallopNYC Board Chair Constance Hunter address the attendees.
Photos by Snap Photo and Cinema
U.S. Para Dressage Team member Sydney Collier with Barbara Richardson. Roberto Tedesco, Lauren Reischer and Jessica Springsteen. Photos by Snap Photo and Cinema.
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