Representatives from Walsh University, Pegasus Farms and Rotary International along with members of the veteran and first responders community came together on Wednesday, July 18, to celebrate the Grand Opening of the new Military Family Center, located at 5495 Meese Road in Louisville, Ohio.
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"What a wonderful opportunity. What a wonderful example of people coming together to honor those who deserve to be honored and served," said Walsh President Richard Jusseaume during his remarks. "We are very grateful to have been invited to be a part of this, we hope that as it continues to develop, it becomes more of a presence here in Stark County. Our hope is that this center continues to help those who have helped so many of us."
Located on a beautiful 20-acre horse farm, the MFC is a new resource for veterans, active-duty military, first responders, and their families. Launched as a collaboration between Rotary International Foundation, Rotary Districts 6650, 3131, 3132, Pegasus Farm, and Walsh University, the goal of the MFC is to meet the critical needs of veterans, active-duty military, first responders, and their families in a unique, serene setting that promotes connection and healing.
The MFC combines the strengths of Rotary’s vision and commitment to veterans and Pegasus Farm’s therapeutic equestrian programs with Walsh University’s physical/occupational therapy and counseling programs.
"I want to acknowledge two of our faculty members, Drs. Pam Ritzline and Penny Bove. Both have been instrumental in the creation of this counseling and physical therapy center," said President Jusseaume during his remarks. "They have worked hard on this project, taking it through the various stages of organization and design, and now they will continue by providing people to staff the center. Thank you for your hard work."
Pegasus Farm is providing equine assisted activities that are designed to engage military and former military. Interacting and working with horses is proven effective in improving the lives of those dealing with post-traumatic stress, brain and physical injury, and depression.
Walsh University is using the MFC as an educational site for their graduate students in physical and occupational therapy as well as counseling. Students work alongside licensed therapists to provide individualized services. All services are offered at no cost to veterans, active-duty military, first responders, and their families.
There are a number of activities, events and other opportunities for veterans, active-duty military, first responders, and their families at the MFC. To learn more, please visit www.militaryfamilycenter.org or call 330.935.2300 ext. 104.
The Military Family Center is open every Wednesday from 2:30-5:30 p.m., and the first Saturday of every month from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. for people to come develop a better understanding of the facility.
Community Partners Photo Caption (L-R): Mike Pierce, Plain Twp Rotary and Hughes Kitchen and Bath; Victoria VanBuskirk, Congressman Gibbs Office; Dan Morgan, Rotary District 6650 Governor-elect; Carol Lichtenwalter, Pegasus Farms; and Walsh President Richard Jusseaume.