Meet Kelly...
Dream it.
It all begins with an idea. I have always had a love for animals and, as a child, I dreamed about becoming a veterinarian. As I aged, I had wondrous opportunities to ride horses, even in Alaska. After my Papa passed away, I started to take riding lessons which developed into, what some might consider, an addiction.
Build it.
I would go to the barn everyday and ride. Eventually, I started to volunteer for a therapeutic riding program. During this time, I was finishing my Bachelor Degree in Communications and was considering going to graduate school. Despite my busy school schedule, I managed to work my way up the ladder and become a partner in the therapeutic riding program I was working with. After I finished my Masters Degree in Science with a Dual Certification in Childhood Education and Childhood Special Education, I decided to start my own therapeutic riding program. I became a PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) International Certified Instructor as well as a Special Olympics Equestrian Coach and Clinician. I became certified in First Aid, CPR, and AED for all ages as well certified by the Epilepsy Foundation. In 2013, I taught 2 seminars at the nationally known Equine Affaire in Massachusetts and in 2014 my therapeutic riding program Flying Changes, formerly Our Dream Riding, received the Best on Long Island in Therapeutic Horseback Riding Award.
Grow it.
In 2015, Choya Farms (named after my Grandfather) was birthed. Choya Farms has an immensely unique feel to it. Once you and the horse step foot on the property there is a calming and comforting feeling that I can only call my Grandfather’s presence. I am so grateful to have accomplished the ultimate goal of Dreaming, Building, and continuing to Grow what is Choya Farms. I have so many plans for this facility and I cannot wait to see them come to fruition!
