My Nonprofit Reviews

I knew very little of my aunt. In the early 1960s, she had been hospitalized in her early 20s with a diagnosis of schizophrenia and my mom, her sister, said she loved horses. After I connected with her 25+ years ago, while she was living in a group home, I searched for a way for her to experience horses in a loving, accepting, supportive environment.
My research, and Aunt Barbara's heart led me to Rose of Sharon. Joan Twining and her "people of fur" were among the highlights of the time I would spend with my aunt over the years. I referred to those visits frequently, including in our last conversation, the day before she passed away. As always, she smiled wide and respond with her signature exuberant "oh boy!"

Thank you to Joan, her staff, volunteers, board members, and donors for making that magical transformation possible. Your work in the world continues to make such a difference.

My Aunt Barbara was diagnosed with schizophrenia over 40 years ago. Though now living in a group home, she had been hospitalized and under heavy medication for many years. Before her illness, Barbara had been a gifted artist and had been especially fond of horses. Several years ago, I started to regularly visit my Aunt. Knowing her interest in horses, I had hoped to find some sort of equestrian facility for us to visit together. How truly fortunate we were to have found Rose of Sharon. During our first visit to Rose of Sharon, Barbara would not even approach the horses, and would want to leave the barn after only a few minutes. Later, however, when I would ask if she would like to visit "Joanie and the horses," I would always receive an enthusiastic "Oh Boy!" Little by little, and with Joan Twining's love and patience, Barbara would spend a few more minutes near the horses. After a long absence, Barbara even petted Fancy's nose--a huge milestone for her. Under Joan's gentle guidance, Barbara's ability to confidently stand near the horses, to brush Izzy and to follow directions dramatically improved. I know it is not easy to operate a small, underfunded organization such as Rose of Sharon. However, I know that my Aunt's story is the norm, and not the exception.

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