Harnessing the Future
From Corporate to Country
10th Anniversary Gala
Harnessing the Future
Today , Berkshire HorseWorks stands as validation to Hayley ’ s belief in the healing power of equine therapy . Over the past decade , the ranch has expanded its offerings significantly . The venue has grown into a multifaceted working farm , corralling therapeutic programs alongside a wide range of activities and experiences that harness the unique abilities of horses to connect , inspire , and spark joy .
Hayley Sumner shares a moment with Dubs .
From Corporate to Country
After attending Northwestern University for communications , Hayley entered the fastpaced world of public relations , where she co-founded a major PR firm in New York . Her career flourished , taking her from coast to coast , yet something was missing . A serendipitous encounter with a horse in Topanga Canyon , California , rekindled the passion she had felt as a child . “ I had no fear around horses , and the connection felt so organic and otherworldly ,” Hayley recalls . “ I felt joyful and alive .”
This reconnection eventually led her to Kentucky , where she worked closely with her first horse , Definitive Whim , a thoroughbred foal she impulsively purchased at auction . This period of her life was transformative , deepening her understanding of horses and introducing her to the Eagala Model , a leading approach in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Equine Assisted Learning . The model provides an alternative to existing models of talk therapy , allowing professionals to broaden their skill sets in support of diverse populations .
After becoming certified in the Eagala Model with the intention of Definitive Whim becoming a therapy horse , an injection with a non-sterile needle would lead to a heartbreaking end , Definitive Whim had to be put down .
The loss of Hayley ’ s first horse was a turning point : “ I left Kentucky . I wanted to create a a place that reminded me of Lake Farm Camp , and I wanted to use this Eagala Model . I just knew that this somehow was gonna be integrated into my life . This was my path , period .”
Hayley ’ s move to the Berkshires marked the beginning of Berkshire HorseWorks , but it wasn ’ t an easy start . She faced significant personal challenges that included having breast cancer . She remained resolute in her mission to create a healing space for others . A key moment came when she adopted Spirit , a blue-eyed painted horse rescued from Montana . “ I saw Spirit in the field , and I knew he had to be my horse . And that ’ s how it all began . It was like Definitive Whim at its best : Get your idea and don ’ t waffle and make things happen .”
Spirit became the heart of BerkshireWorks and more horses would follow , each embodying the resilience and transformative power that Hayley wanted the ranch to represent . Initially envisioned as a venue for corporate team-building , the ranch ’ s mission soon evolved as the impact on children visiting the ranch became undeniable . Hayley says , “ We saw the change in the kids . The horses were bringing out emotions and connections that traditional therapy couldn ’ t reach . It was a powerful realization that guided the ranch ’ s evolution .”
Trail ride lessons , complete with wine and cheese picnics , provide a serene way to explore the scenic landscapes of the Berkshires . Art on the Ranch experiences combine creativity with close interactions with the herd , offering participants a chance to create art while immersed in the natural beauty of the ranch . Hayley ’ s commitment to making these programs accessible to all is unwavering . “ This work is incredibly important , and I ’ m dedicated to sustaining and growing it ,” she says . The upcoming 10th Anniversary Gala is a crucial part of this vision , focusing on raising funds to provide more scholarships so that the healing power of horses can reach even more people .
10th Anniversary Gala
BerkshireHorseWorks is holding its gala , Rescues on the Runway : A Walk of Resiliency , from 6 to 9 p . m . on Friday , September 20 , at HomeFarm on Undermountain Road in Lenox . The event will feature performances by The Berkshire Dreamers and Opera Cowgirls , emceed by State Representative Smitty Pignatelli . All proceeds will support the care of the horses and community programs for those at risk . berkshirehorseworks . com
Holiday Fall 2023 2024 BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE // // 61