Art show raises funds for disabled children in equine therapy program

MONROE — The Men’s Club at Stonebridge, an active adult community in the township, held an art expo May 15 to benefit the Special Strides Therapeutic Riding Center and the Steven Werthan Memorial Fund.

The event featured over 200 paintings, photographs, pottery and sculptures, all created by residents of Stonebridge.

Men’s Club members Joel Belgard, Norman Pomerantz and Irv Becker are volunteers at Special Strides and noted the importance of equine-assisted therapy and how it helps children with physical and developmental challenges. The three decided to get the Men’s Club involved in order to help make a difference in the lives of children with special needs.

The event helped to raise over $5,000. On June 13, Men’s Club President Joel Greenberg and the board will present a check to program director and physical therapist Susie Rehr during the club’s breakfast.

“It is the mission of Special Strides that all children have an opportunity to experience our magic, regardless of their parents’ financial status,” Rehr said.

The money raised by the Men’s Club will provide financial assistance to those families whose children would not otherwise be able to receive therapy at Special Strides.

Karen Goldberg, director of marketing and development at Special Strides, commended the Men’s Club at Stonebridge for its dedication and efforts to enhance the quality of life for individuals with special needs.

“They are remarkable role models, and their sense of community is extraordinary,” Goldberg said. “We are so proud to have them as a part of our Special Strides family.”