TEN YEARS OF PURPOSE AT BERKSHIRE HORSEWORKS
AUG 24
By Taylor Staubach Photos By Lee Everett
THIS YEAR marks a decade of unwavering commitment to horse-centric connection and transformation at Berkshire HorseWorks, a therapeutic horse ranch in Richmond that offers respite, retreat, and rollicking fun. Founded by the passionate and multi-talented Hayley Sumner, the Richmond ranch has evolved and expanded to include programs of different modalities built around the healing power of horses.
Horse-Tale Beginnings
Hayley’s brushings with horses began at a young age, during summers spent at Lake Farm Camp in Orleans, Cape Cod. “My parents sent me there from when I was six to eleven,” recalls Hayley. “Every week, we had to pick a new animal duty before we could swim or play a sport.”
These early experiences left a deep impression on her, sparking dreams that she would become reality later in life. By the age of 10, she had written a business plan for a working ranch that would serve at-risk kids—a vision that stayed with her, even as her life took a different path.
From Corporate to Country
After attending Northwestern University for communications, Hayley entered the fast-paced 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.”
Harnessing the Future
Today, Berkshire HorseWorks stands as validation to Hayley’s belief in the heal-ing 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.
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 Under-mountain 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.
The Stars of Berkshire HorseWorks
Since Spirit arrived at the ranch in 2013, Berkshire HorseWorks has become home to a diverse group of equine residents, each with a unique story and role in the therapeutic programs.
007 or “Dubs”: This laid-back pony, once part of a mounted lesson program, now thrives at Berkshire HorseWorks. He participates in Eagala’s Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Equine Assisted Learning sessions, as well as team-building activities for local schools.
Zephyr “Zeph”: Known for his shy demeanor and gentle eyes, Zeph cannot be ridden due to arthritis but enjoys grooming and walking during meditation sessions, making him a favorite in therapeutic activities.
Spirit: A soulful rescue from Montana, Spirit has overcome significant emotional and physical scars. His striking blue eyes and painted body make him a standout, especially favored by at-risk children.
Gunnar: This 19-year-old grey Arabian cross, a cancer survivor, works with therapy clients and enjoys trail rides, always requiring a tender eye and heart.
Bolt & Rodeo: These sweet Sicilian mini donkeys play significant roles in programs like “Girls Rule!” and “SSSP,” enjoying snuggles, apples, and grand adventures to the mailbox.
Star: A 10-year-old Shetland mini cross, Star came to the ranch after being neglected. He is slowly regaining his confidence and trust under the ranch’s care.
Mamacita & Nellie: The newest additions and first mares to the ranch, these two mini horses are quickly becoming beloved members of the community.
SEASONAL PROGRAMS
As the seasons change, Berkshire HorseWorks offers a variety of programs to engage and inspire visitors.
Equine-Assisted Team Building: Eagala model programs to enhance communication, conflict resolution, and team cohesion through experiential learning with horses.
Equine Assisted Learning: These sessions focus on gratitude and reflection, helping individuals build trust, improve communication skills, and develop emotional resilience.
Ranch Experiences:
• Ranch Experience for Families: Engage in family volunteering and reconnect with nature.
• Ranch Life 101: Hands-on activities and horse interaction for kids to build resilience and confidence.
• Free Range Donkey Play: Suitable for all ages, especially young children and families.
Trail Ride Lesson Experience: Guided horseback rides through the picturesque landscapes of the Berkshires provide therapeutic rides open to all experience levels.
Art on the Ranch Workshops: Close interactions with the herd followed by creating art with wine or cider.
Hiking and Horses: Mindfulness, meditation, and journaling combined with a hike and horse companionship. Ideal for corporate leaders or those seeking a restorative experience.
Birthday Parties: Custom-themed parties with activities involving horses and donkeys, such as pony painting, musical hay bales, and horse obstacle courses.
For more information or to make a booking, go to
berkshirehorseworks.com or call 413-698-3700.
Other Places to Connect With Horses
Blue Rider Stables, 15 Farm Lane, South Egremont; bluerider.org
Noble Heart Sanctuary, 373 Mill River Southfield Road, New Marlborough; nobleheartsanctuary.org
High & Mighty Therapeutic Riding & Driving Center, 71 Route 21C, Ghent, New York; high-n-mighty.org
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