Summer Daily Fun

Looking to fill a gap in your summer schedule?

We’ve got you covered, no matter what age your child is! Bring them over to Mane Stream for Summer Daily Fun, a morning packed with pony power for kids of ALL abilities! We're talking homemade horse treats, awesome arena games, painting a pony, and cooling off with sudsy horse baths. It’s all the best parts of camp packed into one incredible morning!

Check out our age-group line-up and plug a day into your calendar:

  • Mon, July 6 (9:30–11 AM) | Ages 4–6: A perfect intro for the little ones!

  • Tue, July 7 (9:30–11:30 AM) | Ages 7–11: High-energy games and grooming.

  • Wed, July 8 (9:30–11:30 AM) | Ages 12–13: The basics and beyond!

  • Fri, July 10 (9:30–11:30 AM) | Ages 7–11: Round two for the kids!

The Rules of Fun: Closed-toe shoes are required, and dress to get dirty & wet!

Cost: Only $35/participant! (We’ll email you the required forms right after you sign up)

Spaces fill fast! Tap HERE to lock in your child’s fun day.

Questions? Renae has answers! Reach out at RENAE@manestreamnj.org or 908-439-9636.

A Wealth of Experience Meets a New Passion

Turning Milestones into Magic: Meet Kim Wallace, MS, OTR/L

We are thrilled to introduce Kim Wallace, MS, OTR/L, who joined the Mane Stream team to lead our Pillar School OT sessions on Tuesday mornings. Kim also treats individual clients on weekday afternoons.

Kim is a seasoned therapist with over three decades of experience across an incredible range of settings, from the high-intensity environment of the NICU and acute care to private practice and early intervention. She is a lifelong learner, constantly adding to her toolkit with certifications in areas like primitive reflex integration.

The "Mane Stream" Spark

While Kim is a veteran in the clinical world, she is embarking on a new journey here: incorporating equine movement into her practice. For Kim, seeing the horse in action was a "lightbulb moment." She immediately recognized how the three-dimensional movement of the horse could be harnessed to achieve specific developmental milestones, sparking a level of creativity and excitement that traditional clinic walls simply can’t match.

“I am incredibly excited to be working at Mane Stream, a place I have admired for years,” Kim says. “Watching children arrive using walkers or wheelchairs and then sit upright on horseback, smiling and thriving, is nothing short of inspiring. Activities that support sensory integration and motor planning become even more impactful through the horse’s natural motion, providing unique vestibular and proprioceptive input that closely mimics walking.”

Creative Interventions, Personal Care

Known for her vibrant, outgoing personality, Kim doesn’t just "do therapy"; she designs it. She has a gift for creating purposeful, inventive interventions that make the hard work of reaching milestones feel like an adventure. Whether she’s brainstorming a new way to use the outdoor environment or collaborating with our "amazing, patient, and flexible" volunteers, Kim’s focus is always on providing comprehensive, personal care to our young clients.

At Home in the Community

Kim lives locally with her husband, two children, and two Labradors. She’s already diving into planning "fun fall activities" for our clients, and we can’t wait to see the creative energy she brings to the barn this season.

Please give a warm (and vibrant!) welcome to Kim next time you see her in the arena!

Building a Safer Mane Stream

Participant & volunteer safety - please read

Team, it’s time to put on your hard hats! Our top priority is keeping Mane Stream the safest barn in Jersey. In honor of National Safety Month, we are rolling out the blueprint for our top 6 safety protocols.

Safety isn’t just a checklist; it’s a team effort. This June, we’re asking our entire "herd" (parents, participants, and volunteers) to help us maintain a rock-solid foundation in the ring, the clinic, and the barn. Let's work together to keep our safety standards high!

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Meet the Dream Team Behind Summer Camp 2026!

We are thrilled to introduce the powerhouse trio leading the charge for 9 weeks of sun, saddles, and smiles! This year’s camp program is in expert hands, led by our Camp Activities Specialist and PATH Intl. Certified Instructor, Lola Bordoni Liotta, whose "can-do" spirit and deep expertise ensure every rider shines. Joining her are our two talented summer interns: Soph Kaltenbach, a Goucher College junior with a heart for equine-assisted mental well-being, and Paige Hagman, a University of Kentucky senior known for her high-energy "whatever-it-takes" approach. Together, they are ready to create a safe, joyful, and inclusive environment for all 72 of our summer campers!

SOPHIE KALTENBACH

Sophie "Soph" Kaltenbach (they/them) is a rising junior at Goucher College, working towards a Literature major and Equine Studies minor. Soph's academic interests aid in their pursuit of creating spaces for broader world perspectives, mental well-being, and community, with an emphasis on how relationships with animals foster connectivity. They are passionate about working in social services, particularly with horses and children. They have experience caring for rescue and feral horses, including barn chores, medical interventions, and groundwork. Soph has also engaged kids with disabilities, mental health struggles, and behavioral issues through fun activities, sports, and mental health programs. Following the completion of their undergraduate education, Soph plans to continue studying and working with horses in a professional capacity as well as a personal one. Their passion for horses and helping others informs the empathetic, enthusiastic, and educational approach they take in a work environment. Soph has volunteered the past two summers and is excited to join the Mane Stream team this summer to further their hands-on experience in the equine field and explore possible career paths. They look forward to working closely with the wonderful staff, campers, and herd of the Summer Camp program.

paige hagman

Paige is a rising senior at the University of Kentucky, where she is pursuing a degree in Equine Science and Management. A local resident with deep roots in our community, Paige has been in the saddle since the age of eight. Known by Mane Stream Riding Instructor Kelly Champion as a "whatever-it-takes" horsewoman, Paige brings a high-energy, "get-it-done" attitude that is essential for the fast-paced summer camp environment.

Her academic background in equine science, combined with her years of practical barn experience, allows her to approach horse management with both technical skill and a lifelong love for animals. Outside the arena, Paige is a true outdoors enthusiast who enjoys sports, the beach, and crafting; creative outlets that will undoubtedly help her keep our campers engaged and inspired. Paige is eager to dive into the operational side of our nonprofit, gaining hands-on experience in running a premier riding school while fostering a safe, joyful environment for our participants.


This year’s team will be led by:

Lola Bordoni Liotta, Camp Activities Specialist and PATH Intl. Certified Registered Instructor

Lola is a PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) and Centenary University graduate with a degree in Equine Studies. She was heavily involved in the TRAC program while at Centenary. Lola has spent the past year expanding her role well beyond the arena.

From assisting with volunteer training sessions and running field trips to jumping in wherever she is needed, Lola’s has become a staple of our daily operations. Her background competing on Centenary’s IHSA and Hunter Jumper teams provided a strong foundation, but it is her commitment to the diverse needs of our riders that defines her work today.

In 2026, Lola stepped into the role of Camp Activities Specialist, where she manages her team of interns and 9 weeks of summer camp for riders of all abilities. Bilingual in Italian, Lola loves to travel and explore new cultures, especially if she can find a way to include horses in her itinerary!

Additional Riding Instructors:

Kathy Dermody, Camp Director & PATH Intl. CTRI
Jen Dermody, PATH Intl. Advanced CTRI
Kelly Champion, PATH Intl. CTRI
Holland Kochanski, PATH Intl. CTRI
Rachel Doyle, PATH Intl. CTRI & ESMHL

Remembering Sheila Tweedie

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Sheila Tweedie, a beloved Board Member Emerita and a cornerstone of the Mane Stream family for over fifty years.

Sheila’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of our organization. From our early days as the Somerset Hills Handicapped Riding Club (SHHRC), when we operated on a shoestring budget out of a private backyard, to the thriving facility we call home today, Sheila was there. She wore every hat imaginable: instructor, volunteer, board member, and generous donor.

A Legacy of Service and Strength

When Mane Stream moved to Oldwick, Sheila and her husband, John, were front and center on work days, clearing wild roses from pastures and building stalls within what was then a simple landscaping shed. Board Member Cynthia Barkman fondly recalls Sheila’s formidable yet kind presence:

"I will always be grateful that our paths crossed and thankful for the critical role she and John played in ensuring the success of Mane Stream and helping to shepherd it through the transition from a backyard organization with a couple of horses and a handful of adaptive horsemanship clients to the offerings of today."

Her Lasting Impact

Sheila’s spirit remains a tangible presence at the farm, perhaps most notably through her gift of Minnie, our wonderful Norwegian Fjord. Minnie has enriched our therapy services immeasurably, carrying on Sheila’s legacy of connection with every session. Beyond the arena, Sheila’s physical labor and steady wisdom helped build the very foundation of our Oldwick facility, turning a vision into the home we share today.

Her artistry and warmth also continue to greet our community every day. The beautiful, handmade quilt she created for our 50th Anniversary currently hangs in the Mane Stream vestibule, serving as a vibrant welcome to all who enter. Many in our family will also fondly remember the joy Sheila and John brought to the world through the beautiful Golden Retrievers they raised, a testament to a life defined by a deep love for all living things.

We are forever grateful for Sheila’s wisdom, her kindness, and her lifelong commitment to our mission. Her influence remains a guiding light for us all.

Rest in peace, Sheila. You will be deeply missed.

Arrangements for Mrs. Tweedie are pending and will be posted when they are available.
SHEILA TWEEDIE OBITUARY

Nancy Jaffer Equestrian Sports Writer - article

Limited Edition Merch - Available Now Through May 20th

The Mane Stream Stars & Stripes Collection

In honor of the upcoming 250th anniversary, Mane Stream is going "Stars and Stripes!" We’ve launched a brand-new, limited-edition apparel collection that blends patriotic pride with your love for the farm. Whether you’re at the stable, the gym, or out celebrating the 4th of July, this gear is designed to show off your Mane Stream spirit in style.

Something for Every Mane Stream Fan. Our online store is packed with high-quality options for the whole family:

  • Performance Wear & Tanks: Stay cool and comfortable during those summer rides or workouts with our moisture-wicking fabrics.

  • Women’s V-Necks: A classic, flattering fit that’s perfect for everyday wear.

  • T-Shirts & Youth Sizes: From our smallest riders to our longtime supporters, we have sizes for everyone!

Shop with Purpose. Every purchase directly supports Mane Stream’s mission of providing unbridled possibilities for our participants. You get great gear, and our programs get the vital support they need to thrive.

Don’t Wait, The Clock is Ticking! The online store officially closes at midnight on May 20th. Once the doors close, these exclusive 250th-anniversary designs will be gone for good.

SHOP THE COLLECTION NOW

Items will be processed after the store closes and will be available for pickup starting June 19th. Show your stripes and support Mane Stream today!

EMBROIDERY MERCH STORE

The Mane Stream EMBROIDERED Merch Store is open all year. We specialize in high-quality, embroidered hoodies, jackets, and hats designed specifically for the frigid cold. Choose your favorite logo, and even get your name embroidered for a personalized touch. Don't get caught out in the cold—get your orders in now to stay warm and comfortable all season long!
SHOP TODAY

Building for the Future

Welcoming Development Director Vicki Lowrie

Mane Stream is pleased to announce the appointment of Vicki Lowrie as the organization’s new Development Director. Joining the team in February 2026, Vicki brings more than 20 years of nonprofit experience and a proven track record of leadership to the Mane Stream community.

She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Capella University with a concentration in nonprofit management and leadership. Prior to joining Mane Stream, Vicki served in development and program roles at NewBridge Services, Inc., the Huntington’s Disease Society of America, and, most recently, as Program Director at the Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey.

"We are very excited to have Vicki as part of the Mane Stream fundraising team," says Executive Director Trish Hegeman. "She will have an important role in expanding our foundation grant program and with our special events. Her experience is a great match for Mane Stream!"

Driven By Mission
Vicki was drawn to Mane Stream by its unique mission and the opportunity to support an organization that creates such meaningful impact in people’s lives. In her first few months at Mane Stream, Vicki has enjoyed getting to know the organization, its mission, and the dedicated team behind its work. She has especially appreciated learning more about the horses and the important role they play in supporting participants. As she continues settling into her role, she looks forward to experiencing more of Mane Stream’s programs firsthand and deepening her understanding of their impact.

Inspired by the commitment of the staff, volunteers, and community, Vicki is excited to help expand opportunities for Mane Stream’s future. She looks forward to strengthening relationships, welcoming new sponsors and donors, and building partnerships that support the organization’s continued growth and long‑term sustainability.

Life Outside the Farm
When she isn't at the farm, Vicki enjoys a busy home life, spending time with her husband, their two children, their dog Jerry, and their two cats.

Volunteers Make Mane Stream Shine

A SUD-sational Success: Volunteer Appreciation Week Wrap-Up!

What a way to wash away the winter blues! Our Volunteer Appreciation Week was graced with some beautiful spring weather as the staff celebrated the "scent-imental" impact our volunteers have on everything we do. From the handmade soaps by Mt. Lebanon Soap Co. to the refreshing treats in the breezeway, the farm was alive with gratitude and SUD-sational spirit.

We kicked off the week by diving into the inspiring stories of three incredible volunteers spotlighted on our website: Alison Crowley, who finds "more joy than she could have imagined" after a decade of service; Amy Mahoney, who continues to leave "sunshine in her path" during therapy sessions; and Karen Ruffner, who reminded us all of the simple "Power of Showing Up."

It wasn't just about the gifts; it was a high-energy week of programming that kept everyone on their toes. Our volunteers provided the perfect "lather" of support for a packed schedule of adaptive riding lessons, therapy sessions, and energizing visits from the Pillar Elementary School and Mt. Bethel Village day program. We even trained 12 new volunteers who are jumping right in to ensure the high level of safety and fun we are known for.

How Many Bubbles in Bubble’s Bubble Bath?

Of course, it wouldn't be a party without some friendly competition! Our "How Many Bubbles in Bubble’s Bubble Bath?" contest had a bunch of people guessing, but the 1st Place Winner Leroy Hunninghake, 2nd Place Winner Karen Mikita-Kaufhold, 3rd Place Winner Mike Murphy took home the top prizes with the closest guesses to 233!

To keep our hardworking crew fueled, there was a massive selection of homemade treats, salty snacks, and a legendary candy spread courtesy of M&M Mars and our former volunteer coordinator, Emily Seguine.

Most importantly, this week was a chance to say a heartfelt thank you. Whether you’ve been with us for days or decades, your commitment to coming back week after week is what changes the lives of our participants. Thanks to this incredible team, we saw 100 participants visit the farm this week, all supported by a dedicated crew of 75 volunteers (most of whom we didn’t get pics of…sorry!).

To everyone who donned their boots and lent a hand: thank you for your unwavering dedication and for helping Mane Stream shine!

May 2026 Volunteer Milestones

This month, we are celebrating a wide range of commitment, from those just finishing their first year to a truly monumental achievement by one of our most dedicated team members. Volunteers at every stage, whether you’ve been here for one year or eight, are the heartbeat of Mane Stream, and each milestone represents countless lives touched by your hard work.

2,500+ Lifetime Hours | Leroy Hunninghake

Over the last eight years, Leroy Hunninghake has transitioned from a weekly volunteer to a deeply valued member of the Mane Stream family. This year, we are thrilled to celebrate his latest 500 hours, reaching 2,500 lifetime service hours.

Leroy is the definition of dependable. While he still assists with lessons, therapy sessions, seniors’ trips, and field trips, he’s also been known to stock the bathrooms and tidy up wherever he sees needs tidying. He has become a vital mentor and coordinator for the young men from Bonnie Brae during their weekly visits. Whether he’s leading them through barn chores or tackling farm projects that are perfect for strong teen guys, Leroy’s leadership and appreciation for their hard work shines through.

We are constantly moved by Leroy’s commitment to our mission and his willingness to tackle anything the farm needs with a smile. His passion for seeing every participant succeed is matched only by his tireless work ethic.

We are also proud to recognize those celebrating their first and third years with us.

3rd Anniversary: Andrea Greenspan

1st Anniversary: Neeve Canniffe, Patrick Crawford, Sameera Jaggi, Joe Lynch, Nicole Randazza, Colette Shovlin, Sara Sturtevant

Win Big with the Golden Horseshoe 50/50!

What would you do with an extra $7,500?

Whether it’s booking a bucket-list summer vacation, finally finishing that "Home Project" renovation, spoiling your horse with new tack, OR a summer of Horse Show entry fees, the Golden Horseshoe 50/50 Raffle is your ticket to making it happen.

The Details:

  • Price: $100 per ticket

  • Grand Prize: Up to $7,500 (half the pot!)

  • The Odds: Only 150 tickets will be sold.

Don’t wait for "Paradise" to call; with such limited tickets, they won't last long. The winning ticket will be drawn on June 13th, and you do not need to be present to win!

Claim your lucky number before they’re gone: 📞 Call 908-439-9636 or stop by the Mane Stream office today!