For 25 years, Discovery Riders (DR) has provided equine-assisted therapeutic activities to children, their families and anyone in need of the program. To continue their work, the organization counts on the financial support and volunteer assistance of their community.
With that in mind, Discovery Riders held their annual Blues at the Barn fundraiser on Saturday, Sept. 13, at their riding center in Bellefontaine. The event gave them the opportunity to thank their supporters while recognizing the contributions of two in particular — Jerry and Penny Robinson.
According to emcee John Bodin, an attorney with TDH Law, the DR board of directors first approached the Robinsons about joining the organization over 20 years ago. They felt Jerry’s work with JL Robinson Quarter Horses as well as his connections within the community made him an ideal candidate.
So Jerry attended a board meeting. An over three-hour board meeting. And when it was over, he walked away. The problem, Bodin said, was Jerry thought there were “too many lawyers” and it “might not be the best fit.”
Five years later, Jerry met Linda Hauck, who started the ministry, and a partnership was formed.
“He breathed life into this organization,” Bodin said, especially in the early 2000s when it was “touch and go.” Bodin admitted they “helped keep it alive.”
During the ceremony Saturday night, Jerry and Penny were presented with the Lifetime of Giving Award. In addition, the parent viewing area at the equestrian center has been dedicated in their honor, which will be noted by a plaque and their photo.
Jerry then took the microphone and shared some of his history at the center and with Linda Hauck.
“Come and watch our people work,” he told the crowd of about 160 supporters. “If you could see a child who’s in a wheelchair get off a horse …” He then became too choked up to continue that sentence.
Matt Dolph, DR board president, also spoke, sharing what they had accomplished so far this year and what they have planned for 2026. Their main focus is on reaching more school districts as he pointed out that one in four young adults suffer from depression.
Besides the Saturday night dinner, which was provided by Paul’s Catering, Urbana, for $100 a plate, the fundraiser featured live music from Columbus band StillWild, plus silent and live auctions.
Highlights of the latter were two weekends at board member Jon Wackerman’s Indian Lake house that went for $4,500 each and another two weekday stays at The Buckeye Box in Hocking Hills that each brought in another $2,000, thanks to donors Terri and Ron Greenbaum.
Other donations to the auction included a reverse osmosis drinking water system from Easton Water, and a woman’s glamor package that included a Michael Eller loose diamond, a mini photography session with Susie Jarvis at the Photo Booth and a Michael Kors crossbody bag.
Auctioneer Harley Jackson, who’s served the fundraiser in that capacity for many years, once again offered his services for the live auction.
Lindsay Jackson, DR executive director, stated this year’s fundraiser was record-breaking, bringing in over $90,000. The goal had been $50,000, with about half of that covering the costs for 55 students at $500 each (which is enough for an eight-week session) and the rest going to program development.
“I’m so grateful for the outpouring of support from our community,” Jackson said. “Our local donors ensure we can continue our services for future generations in Logan County and the nine other surrounding counties we service. It shows that when you have local support the possibilities are endless.”
To find out how you can help Discovery Riders through financial support or as a volunteer, visit their website at discoveryriders.org or call (937) 935-6545.
