Lisa Gatti, inspired by a Danielle Steel novel and her passion for horses and special education, founded Pal-O-Mine Equestrian in 1995, a nonprofit therapeutic horseback riding program for individuals with disabilities and vulnerable populations. Starting with just one horse and ten students, the program has grown over 30 years to serve more than 400 students weekly at a 13-acre campus in Islandia, featuring specially trained horses and a multidisciplinary staff. Pal-O-Mine offers comprehensive therapy that promotes physical, emotional, and vocational growth, including programs for veterans, trauma survivors, and individuals on the autism spectrum, supported by grants, donations, and a $2.4 million annual budget.
Beyond riding lessons, Pal-O-Mine has expanded to include vocational training through its J-STEP program, which teaches life and job skills to young adults aging out of school, and initiatives for Alzheimer’s patients and cancer survivors. The facility includes extensive amenities such as indoor and outdoor arenas, classrooms, and a wellness center, and emphasizes inclusivity by not turning away clients unable to pay. Gatti’s vision has created a vibrant community that fosters empathy, confidence, and independence, profoundly impacting participants like Maryellen King and Timothy McEnroe, while inspiring volunteers and staff alike.
