WARSAW, Ind. (WNDU) – A transformational new safe haven for Michiana heroes officially opened its doors in Warsaw on September 14.
Community members, veterans and local leaders gathered as The Magical Meadows Therapeutic Horseback Riding center cut the ribbon on its brand-new, 14,000-square-foot Warriors Arena.
The milestone comes just two months after the center reached its $2.6 million fundraising goal in July.
For years, the Warsaw-based nonprofit has provided therapeutic riding programs for children and adults with physical and cognitive disabilities.
However, leadership recognized another urgent need across the region: supporting military veterans and first responders coping with trauma, post-traumatic stress, and everyday service-related stress.
“We owe it to our veterans and people who fought for our great country to provide that very freedom we enjoy every day, to do everything we can to take care of them” said Kosciusko County Sheriff Jim Smith.
Inside the new facility, participants in the Warriors Mount Up program can work with 25 therapy horses, learn horsemanship, ride and connect with peers walking similar paths.
Organizers designed the arena with round-the-clock accessibility in mind, ensuring help is never out of reach during a mental health crisis.
“They are going to have a unique key code that will allow them to be here, even if it is 2 o’clock in the morning,” said Tammy Stackhouse, founder of The Magical Meadows. “They know that if they are struggling, all they have to do is reach out — even at 3 o’clock in the morning — and we will have someone here with them.”
Leaders emphasized that while equine-assisted therapy is the centerpiece, the fellowship built within the barn walls serves as a vital lifeline.
“We’re celebrating. That’s the best way I can tell you,” Smith said. “It is so much more than just the horses. This is a safe space for our local heroes here in the county and our veterans in the community.”
For more information on the Warriors Mount Up program or how to get involved, visit their website.
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