Team Velvet, Inc.
A Non Profit 501(C)(3) Charitable Organization
Equine Facilitated Mental Health Services for Children
Understanding Bereavement, Giftedness, Grief and Loss, Treatment of Trauma, Adjustment Issues
"Our horses work in the arena of a child's heart"
Services are provided at NO CHARGE to the families.
Or mail checks made out to Team Velvet, Inc. to PO Box 268, Rocky Hill, NJ 08553-0268.
Team Velvet, Inc. In The News Archives
Special Event
Rockin' Horse Band
and the Candy Cane Singers
This year has a SPECIAL EVENT as the ROCKIN’ HORSE BAND takes the stage as a benefit to
raise money for therapy horse Precious’ medical bills resulting from her life-saving cancer surgery earlier in the year. With black-and-white paint horse Buddy on the bells, brown- and- white miniature Little Annie playing the pink piano and palomino Precious on the floor keyboard, the ROCKIN’ HORSE BAND will open the holiday season with a unique version of JINGLE BELLS, accompanied by background percussion and the CANDY CANE SINGERS of the Young Volunteers of Team Velvet Inc.
The BAND takes the stageon Sunday November 24th from 12:00 to 12:25 and the Photo Opps with Santa runs from 10am to 3pm at Journeys End Farm, 79 Old Clinton Road, Flemington, NJ 08822. Bring your camera! Donation to fundraising event is $15 a carload.
Team Velvet Inc. is a 501 c-3 organization. For more information go to www.teamvelvet.com or phone
609 924 4330. Come and enjoy a fun day – rain or shine!
** Please note: Insurance regulations prohibit animals on the farm and food and drink are also
not allowed on the property.
Community News
October 2025
My psychology office was in Princeton when September Eleventh occurred. Over time, the children I saw drew pictures and stories of their thoughts and feelings associated with the trauma. I recall clearly one young boy who wrote:
A mother had 3 sons.
“I love you, sons,” she said.
She worked in the big tower
And when the plane hit the tower
The love ran out of her and into the sons.
Here is one of them.
When he grows up
he will help in the world.
He has much love.
Many times, love from our early years becomes redirected into a powerful life cause in adulthood. In Volume l5 of a book called “The Children’s Hour” edited by Marjorie Barrows, a story of the traumatic death of his parrot transformed the life of 10-year-old John James Audubon into one of protecting and advocating for birds for the rest of his life. His drawings and passion for birds changed the world.
Similar was the story of Monty Roberts, world renown horse trainer and environmentalist. His first horse Ginger died when Monty was seven. He and Ginger had received multiple trophies in regional events but his father’s horse training facility was shut down when the
government remade it into a holding facility for Japanese Americans near the end of WW2.
Ginger was killed along with all of the horses who lost their home. For the rest of his life, Monty worked to train wild horses and domestic horses with nonviolent methods.
His work came to the attention of the late Queen Elizabeth who adopted his methods in England and urged him to write books about his work, which he did. His book “The Horses in My Life” summarized stories of 52 of those horses.
At Team Velvet Inc. we work to help children transcend trauma. Some of their stories, like those listed above, inspire us. Our major fundraiser, Photo Opps with Santa, is held November 23, the Sunday before Thanksgiving, at Journeys End Farm. Please help us continue to sustain this work which we provide free to families.
Team Velvet Inc., donations accepted via PayPal or credit card or via mail at Team Velvet Inc., PO Box 268, Rocky Hill, NJ 08553. To refer a child to Dr. Edwards, complete the Contact Form on the website.
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Psychologist Dr. Susan Edwards and the helping horses of Team Velvet inc. are offering an educational series of group sessions for children ages 10 to 12 to help them grow in ways related to strengthening good mental health. Entitled “Overcoming Obstacles and Anxiety”, the program utilizes the true life
experience of one horse, an American Mustang horse named Shy Boy, whose story is told in two children’s books by well-known American horse trainer Monty Roberts. The seminars illustrate ways one horse learned to face and rise above his fear of the unknown and develop a special life purpose helping people learn new ways to appreciate horses. Topics include:
-
Session One - September 28: Growing up in the Wild Understanding the Safety of a Herd and
Recognizing Danger Coping with Fear -
Session Two - October 5: Communication Between Horses How Monty Roberts Learns How Horses Communicate Coping with Anxiety
-
Session Three - October 12: Courage and Change Moving from the Wild to Living with People Learning to Cope with Change
-
Session Four - October 19: Recognizing It Is OK to be Happy How Shy Boy Became Famous
All sessions include learning goals and an interactive horseball activity at the end. Parents must accompany their children but sessions are focused on child learning. The program is FREE but registration is required via email to: kpiparo64@gmail.com. Email child’s name, age, and session date(s) attending. Group size is limited so register early.
SESSIONS ARE SATURDAY, 10:30AM TO NOON OR 1-2:30PM and held in Flemington, NJ at Journeys End Farm. Program Leaders are Susan Edwards, PhD, Psychologist and Volunteer Program Staff. Therapy horses are Buddy, Precious and Little Annie.
Team Velvet Inc. is a 501 c-3 organization providing non-mounted horse therapy to children who have experienced trauma/loss at no fee to families. To refer a children phone Dr. Edwards at 609 924 4330. The program is supported by grants/contributions which may be donated here on our website or via mail at Team Velvet Inc., PO Box 268, Rocky Hill, NJ 08553.
Visits with Horses Child Seminar Series:
Overcoming Obstacles and Anxiety
Community News
Many thanks to all who helped make our Holiday fundraiser, ‘Photo Opps with Santa’ and the premier appearance of The Rockin’ Therapy Horse Band with the Candy Cane Singers such a success. There were smiles all around.
We were pleased with the kind comments we received about the horses, volunteers, and the nonprofit work we do helping kids with trauma. It was a special event and meaningful day.
At this time of year as we look back on the joys and challenges of having this all-volunteer charity, we feel tremendous gratitude to everyone who has helped us in many different ways. From donors to folks who write notes of support and encouragement, we continue to focus on making a difference in the lives of trauma kids 6-12 without fees to families as we are totally funded by grants and donations. Our friendship network spans a large area and folks who find their way to our door hold a special place in their hearts for horses and children.
We thank you and encourage you to view this month’s VIP on-line where you will see our holiday greeting. This year’s card is a picture of therapy horse Buddy in holiday costume talking with Santa Rick of Hunterdon, sharing his holiday wish list and thoughts to everyone for Happy Holidays!
For more information on Team Velvet Inc. Or to make a donation go to www.teamvelvet.com or do so via mail at Team Velvet Inc., PO Box 268, Rocky Hill, NJ 08553.
To refer a child, use the website contact form or call Dr. Edwards at 609 924 4330.
Team Velvet Bookshelf
Community News
Team Velvet Inc. was selected as one of 87 horse-assisted charities across the United States to participate in a national media campaign to help the public recognize and understand the increasingly important role of horses in mental health programs.
Starting this month and peaking in May, which is National Mental Health Awareness Month, the Horses in Mental Health program will share articles, films, videos, and web-based material on the unique contribution of mental health therapy horses to individuals coping with depression, anxiety, grief, and traumatic loss.
Founded in 2009, Team Velvet Inc. was incorporated as a nonprofit providing clinical horse therapy services to children ages 5-12 who have experienced traumatic loss and adjustment. An all-volunteer organization, the group provides therapy and mental health education for children at no cost to families. Our work will be included in this public awareness program.
We will also again be offering our Visits with Horses Seminar Series for children ages 10-12 on Strengthening Emotional Intelligence and Resiliency. These programs will be offered on four Saturday mornings 10-12am or afternoons 1-3pm during the month of May and are based on the children’s classic Black Beauty by Anna Sewell.
Community News
Little Annie All Dressed Up
Photo courtesy Team Velvet
People will often explain how the influence of trauma has changed the trajectory of their lives. I remember on eight-year-old. He wrote a story about the September eleventh tragedy which went something like this:
“A mother has five sons. ‘I love you sons’ she said. She worked in the towers in New York. When the plane hit the towers, the love ran out of her and into the sons. Here is one of them. When he grows up, he will help in the world. He has that much love.”
Team Velvet, Inc. is currently having child volunteers craft a Kind-ness Tree in the horse barn to remind all of us many ways kids transform trauma and obstacles into kindness toward the world. Such kindness can help nature, family, animals, and other children.
The Kindness Tree will display drawings from kids 6-12 that illustrate children’s ideas. Mail drawings to Team Velvet, Inc., PO Box 268, Rocky Hill, NJ 08553 along with the first name and age of the child and parent email address. All drawings will be posted on the Kindness Tree and parents who send an email address will receive an email certificate for each young artist.
Upcoming events: In March, the announcement for the next Visits with Horses class for children ages 10-12 will be posted. The four-week program involves strengthening emotional intelligence and resiliency in kids based on the childhood classic Black Beauty. Parents must accompany the child and there is no fee for the program which is held at our therapy horse farm in Flemington. Details follow in March.
Team Velvet, Inc. is a 501c-3 organization that provides nonmounted equine mental health counseling for children ages 6-12 who experienced trauma. For more information call Psychologist/Director Dr. Susan Edwards at 609 924 4330 to refer a child. Donations can be made at the website or via mail at Team Velvet, Inc., PO Box 268, Rocky Hill, NJ 08553.
Community News
Photo courtesy Team Velvet
Group photo of program volunteers including therapy horses Buddy (left), Precious (center), and Little Annie (far right). Board members front, far right Dr. Susan Edwards and Dr. Kathy Piparo Team Velvet Inc. Board of Directors Secretary Dr. Kathy Piparo and President Dr. Susan Edwards recently honored program volunteers at Team Velvet’s therapy facility Journeys End Farm in Flemington, NJ.
“Without volunteers like you,” Dr. Piparo explained, “we could not provide our horse therapy program for child trauma. Your selfless acts of kindness are the backbone of running a successful all-volunteer organization.”
Team Velvet volunteers work inside the barn, help with facility and pasture maintenance, and decorate the farm with seasonal displays. They also staff fundraisers like the recent “Photo Opps with Santa and His Holiday Horses” and ongoing programs. Some groom the therapy horses and serve as horse handlers in the “Visits with Horses” program designed to strengthen emotional intelligence and resiliency in children ages 10-12.
Dr. Edwards describes the diverse nature of Team Velvet’s dedicated group. “We have volunteers who just like helping , others who are ‘giving back’ to life in gratitude for what they feel has been given to them, and still others who honor a deep love of children by assisting a children’s charity that provides horse counseling in child mental health offered free to families.
Some volunteers are reminded of their country roots when they enter our farm and some just like horses. The sense of peace accompanying entry into a horse farm is a powerful emotion difficult to explain. “
Edwards continued: “I recently asked a newer volunteer who works about four hours a week what she liked about volunteering on the farm. An executive woman with an impressive career who is weekly mucking stalls and sweeping barn aisles offered a response that surprised me.”
“It’s the magic,” Mary said. “Horses and being close to the earth remind me of the powerful love that animals and nature have to offer. In my day-to-day life, I often forget that. When I leave here I always have a smile on my face.”
Dr. Kathy Piparo reminded the group that ultimately their efforts assisting Team Velvet Inc. help children heal from the effects of trauma when she said, “Your selfless kindness can help us make a difference in a child’s life. “
For more information on Team Velvet Inc. or to refer a child age 5-12 call Psychologist/Director Dr. Edwards at 609 924 4330.
Team Velvet Inc. is a 50l c-3 all-volunteer charity totally funded by donations and grants. Tax-deductible donations may be made via the website/PayPal or via mail to Team Velvet Inc., PO Box 268, Rocky Hill, NJ 08553.
Community News
Photo courtesy Team Velvet
Author’s Note: Earlier this month we received a grant to provide non-mounted horse therapy for a year to one child age 6-11 with multiple handicap and/or developmental disability who has experienced trauma. A parent or helping professional can refer the family of the child to Dr. Susan Edwards, Psychologist/Director via email at sedwardsnj@earthlink.net, answering service 609-924-4330 or cell 609-216-1910. Please share this note as there will be no fee for this service.
December 2023
At this time of year we look both back at the events of the past year and forward into the goals of the coming one.
Team Velvet Inc. continued to provide nonmounted clinical horse therapy without fee to trauma children as well as provide general developmental strengthening of emotional intelligence and resiliency through the Visits with Horses Program, Parts One and Two. Using the text Black Beauty by Anna Sewell as well as providing live interactive activities with the program’s therapy horses, the feedback from parents and children was exceptional. We will continue to offer this program for 10-12 year olds in the coming year and may expand into psychoeducational services for nine year olds.
We are looking for two donations of $2,000 each that will allow us to publish a book on managing traumatic flashbacks for kids and one on emotional healing. We also seek permanent supporters whose donations will strengthen the sustainability of our charity.
Thank you to everyone who contacted us with kind words and donations in special memory of our beloved therapy horse Velvet. His picture is included in the electronic edition of this month’s edition along with the quotation under his photo in our barn. “Forever Velvet: his love lives on through us.”
Team Velvet Inc.
Christmas Lights with Santa!
Thursday December 7th & Friday December 8th, 6-8 pm
See SANTA & this Explosion of Lights which is one of the largest private Christmas light displays in Hunterdon and surrounding counties. This is a slow drive-by event where Santa will greet passersby and accept voluntary donations to benefit Team Velvet, Inc. CLICK HERE for event details and to RSVP.
We are pleased to have this kind, gentle gelding join our
helping herd for children.
Buddy is a draft/Quarter horse/paint mix with a kind spirit who will carry on the special bond established by Velvet as the lead male horse in the herd. We thank everyone who is helping
Buddy feel at home.
CLICK HERE to read more about our new horse Buddy!
Christmas in July with
Team Velvet, Inc.
There are many sad events that can change a child's life.
Since 2009 when Team Velvet, Inc. began, our charity has helped children transcend many types of trauma and profound loss. Some include parental death, devastating illness/suicide of a loved one, physical disfigurement, witnessing/experiencing violence, and psychological bullying, among others.
The kids are 5-12 years old. Our equine mental health therapy services are FREE because of donations like yours and Christmas in July is one of our major fundraisers.
Help us Help Kids Live Happy
Community News
As we move into the coming year and review the events of last year and look forward to those of the coming year, we wish to convey immense GRATITUDE to the many people who helped us.
From the perspective of our beloved lead therapy mare Precious, thank you for the overwhelming kindness of those who donated to her medical bills for the cancer surgery that saved her life.
From the perspective of our black-and-white gelding Buddy, much appreciation for those who helped make him feel at home in his transition from an unhappy past to adapting to a happy herd who accepted him and the children who love him.
From the perspective of our miniature horse Little Annie, wonderful thanks for the nutritious horse snacks that made her 'smile'.
From the Young Volunteers and their parents, much appreciation for your efforts to form the horse band and perform at our fall fundraiser.
Now moving into Spring Season. *Team Velvet Young Volunteers and making a video for children on Overcoming Obstacles, narrated by Precious, who transcended cancer, lost vision in one eye and still managed to play the floor piano keyboard at the holiday fundraiser. She also narrates coping with grief at the loss of her mate Velvet and her understanding that love lives on through the actions of the rest of the herd.
*The Inspired by Horses: Child Mental Health Saturday Seminar Series will start March 8th for children ages 9-12 who must be accompanied by a parent. Topics designed to increase psychological resilience illustrated by stories of horses. All sessions are held at Journeys End Farm in Flemington. There is no cost for the seminars but email registration is required to kpiparo64@gmail.com and topics include:
Saturday March 8th - 10:30 - 12 - Medical Courage - Precious the Therapy Horse
Saturday March 15th - 10:30 - 12 - Not Giving Up - Snowman the Rescued Champion
Saturday Marrch 22nd - 10:30 - 12 - Overcoming Fear - Shy Boy, The Wild Mustang
Saturday March 29th - 10:30 - 12 - Power of Kindness - Black Beauty
Saturday April 5th - 10:30 - 12 - Ability to Inspire - Man O' War
Saturday April 12th - 10:30 - 12 - Coping with Bullies - Corona Velvet
*Continuation of non-mounted horse therapy program without fee for children of trauma ages 6-12.
Saving Christmas in July
Christmas in July without Mrs. Santa? Well, almost.
Horse charity Team Velvet Inc. relies on fundraising through its annual Christmas in July online campaign in order to provide year-round therapy services to traumatized children. As a result of donations, child mental health horse therapy services for kids 5-12 may be provided without charge to families. This year, a tragic event nearly endangered the July campaign as well as the life of a beautiful palomino therapy horse named Precious.
Mrs. Santa –costumed Precious who, dressed as Santa’s wife, appears in the group’s November Fundraiser “Photo Opps with Santa and His Holiday Horses”—received severe medical news. In mid-June she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer growing from a tumor within her eye. The tumor was removed and within a week grew back. A clinical lab report revealed that unless the entire eye was removed, this rapidly spreading cancer would claim her life.
Precious experienced cancer-caused immune system weakness and subsequently underwent specialized eye surgery at B.W. Furlong & Associates in its equine surgical facility in Oldwick, NJ. After comprehensive post-op care, she was returned home to her barn in Flemington, NJ, where she was met with ‘Welcome Home, Precious’ signs from kids, a life size Blessings Tree hanging on the barn wall and get-well cards and drawings to help her feel surrounded by love and encouragement. Children made posters symbolizing her special gifts that make others happy.
Dr. Susan Edwards, Psychologist/Director, explained the total medical expense involved surgery as well as pre and post hospitalization medical care. A total amount of $9,000 was paid by the charity for care which she described as “highly specialized and extremely kind, presented by a dedicated group of equine medical professionals who saved the life of this special horse.”
“Precious is an important presence in many children’s lives,” Edwards said, “and they love her.”
“This year our Christmas in July fundraiser message is straightforward, “ Edwards continued, “We ask for any help that can be given, donations of any amount, to help us pay the life-saving medical costs for a child therapy horse with boundless love.”
Buddy the Horse writes to Santa
Over the years Hunterdon Review Editor Walter O’Brien has received many letters to the editor. As a talented publisher, he often has to pick and choose which ones he decides to
include and which to let go. Some become well known
and some sink without a trace. In l897 a young girl named Virginia wrote the Sun newspaper editor asking if there was a Santa Claus. The response by Mr. Francis Pharcellus Church,
one of the paper’s editors, remains one of the most reprinted English language editorials ever published.
His powerful letter remind-ed readers everywhere of the importance of matters of a child’s heart.This year another young heart sent a letter to the editor. This time to the Hunterdon Review, again writing with a true heart. This time, the writer was Buddy the Horse, a shy black and white therapy horse for children at Team Velvet Inc. in Hunterdon County.He asked Editor Walter O’Brien for a different kind of help: to publish his letter to Santa on behalf of the traumatized children he serves. Here is what he writes:
Dear Mr. Editor Walter O’Brien, Hi. It’s me, Buddy the Horse. It is almost Christmas and I am starting to worry that my letter to Santa might not get to the North Pole in time, so I am sending it to you. Our Dr.Susan says that you are a kind man and your readers love animals and children,so maybe if I write straight from my heart, my letter can get published.I am a helping horse for kids under 12. They don’t ride me.
They talk to me, groom me and share what’s in their hearts. I feel sad when bad things happen to children and it shows in my eyes. I try to reach out to them and help in my way so they can overcome the pain that trauma caused them. I work with Dr. Susan and try my best to help them heal.
Santa, we are a small charity — only three helping horses, one doctor and volunteers. This year our mare Precious got cancer. To save her life cost much money. She had to go to the horse hospital and have
surgery. She was very weak but now she is OK. Dr. Susan wrote grants, asked for donations and we even
formed a horse band with the young volunteers who sang Christmas songs so we could earn more money
to pay the medical bill. But what we need is something only Santa can do – find us a benefactor.
You see our services are free to families. No one gets paid, not even our psychologist Dr. Susan. Santa, I would give up all my treats for a year if you would find us a benefactor. Now you know I really love treats, but I love this work even more. Little Timmy, who is 8, had big sad eyes when I met him and now he smiles. We play horse ball together and he laughs. I see what a difference I have made in his young life and it touches me.
Santa, please help my letter find its way to the door of a benefactor who can help us. We are waiting for
them to discover us. There is much more to do.
BUDDY THE HORSE
Team Velvet Inc.
Raritan Township
SPONSORSHIP FORM
June 8, 2024
Hunterdon Foundation
P.O. Box 393
Quakertown, NJ 08868-0393
hunterdonpolo.org
email: hunterdonevents@gmail.com
Team Velvet Inc. is honored to have been selected as one of the named charities for the 2024 Hunterdon Polo Classic to be held June 8, 2024. Sponsorship forms are available at hunterdonpolo.org or from kpiparo64@gmail.com. To donate/designate patron tailgaits to Team Velvet Inc. with full payment to be received by May 25, 2024.
Visits with Horses: April 2024 Team Velvet Inc. News
by Susan Edwards PhD
Team Velvet Inc. welcomes in Spring with our annual Visits with Horses: Child Seminar Series Helping Children Grow in Emotional Intelligence and Resilience. Every year during Mental Health Awareness Month [May], statistics on child self-harm are presented by the government CDC which illustrate alarming trends. From concern over the impact of peer bullying to the witnessing of violence, figures from two years ago reflected that the 8th largest factor in pediatric death in children under l2 was self-inflicted injury. It is very disturbing to imagine pediatric suicide a significant cause of death in America.
Team Velvet Inc., an all-volunteer non-mounted horse therapy charity housed on Journeys End Farm in Flemington, has developed a seminar series teaching children ages 10-12 emotional intelligence and resiliency concepts. When faced with emotional stress, such concepts provide coping skills for kids.
Based on the classic childhood Black Beauty by Anna Sewell, children attending the seminar will have the opportunity for skill building as well as interacting with the therapy horses of Team Velvet Inc. The seminar is a series of four programs and a parent is required to accompany the child to either a morning [10-11:30am] or afternoon [1-2:30pm] session.
Topics include:
Session 1: Saturday, April 13 -- Growing in Emotional Intelligence and Resilience
Session 2: Saturday, April 20 -- Handling Worry and Stress
Session 3: Saturday, April 27 -- Coping with Fear and Anxiety
Session 4: Saturday, May 4 -- Overcoming Obstacles
The program is FREE but registration is required via email to kpiparo64@gmail.com with child’s name, age and session/date attending. Group size is limited so register early. Team Velvet Inc. provides equine-assisted mental health services for children ages 5-12 with emotional trauma and adjustment issues. For more information call Psychologist Dr. Susan Edwards [609 924 4330] to refer a child. The nonprofit is funded totally by donations and grants.Donations may be made via the website or via mail at Team Velvet Inc.,
PO 268, Rocky Hill, NJ 08553.
Community News
Many thanks to all who helped make our Holiday fundraiser, ‘Photo Opps with Santa’ and the premier appearance of The Rockin’ Therapy Horse Band with the Candy Cane Singers such a success. There were smiles all around.
We were pleased with the kind comments we received about the horses, volunteers, and the nonprofit work we do helping kids with trauma. It was a special event and meaningful day.
At this time of year as we look back on the joys and challenges of having this all-volunteer charity, we feel tremendous gratitude to everyone who has helped us in many different ways. From donors to folks who write notes of support and encouragement, we continue to focus on making a difference in the lives of trauma kids 6-12 without fees to families as we are totally funded by grants and donations. Our friendship network spans a large area and folks who find their way to our door hold a special place in their hearts for horses and children.
We thank you and encourage you to view this month’s VIP on-line where you will see our holiday greeting. This year’s card is a picture of therapy horse Buddy in holiday costume talking with Santa Rick of Hunterdon, sharing his holiday wish list and thoughts to everyone for Happy Holidays!
For more information on Team Velvet Inc. Or to make a donation go to www.teamvelvet.com or do so via mail at Team Velvet Inc., PO Box 268, Rocky Hill, NJ 08553.
To refer a child, use the website contact form or call Dr. Edwards at 609 924 4330.
Team Velvet Bookshelf
Community News
Team Velvet Inc. was selected as one of 87 horse-assisted charities across the United States to participate in a national media campaign to help the public recognize and understand the increasingly important role of horses in mental health programs.
Starting this month and peaking in May, which is National Mental Health Awareness Month, the Horses in Mental Health program will share articles, films, videos, and web-based material on the unique contribution of mental health therapy horses to individuals coping with depression, anxiety, grief, and traumatic loss.
Founded in 2009, Team Velvet Inc. was incorporated as a nonprofit providing clinical horse therapy services to children ages 5-12 who have experienced traumatic loss and adjustment. An all-volunteer organization, the group provides therapy and mental health education for children at no cost to families. Our work will be included in this public awareness program.
We will also again be offering our Visits with Horses Seminar Series for children ages 10-12 on Strengthening Emotional Intelligence and Resiliency. These programs will be offered on four Saturday mornings 10-12am or afternoons 1-3pm during the month of May and are based on the children’s classic Black Beauty by Anna Sewell.
Community News
Little Annie All Dressed Up
Photo courtesy Team Velvet
People will often explain how the influence of trauma has changed the trajectory of their lives. I remember on eight-year-old. He wrote a story about the September eleventh tragedy which went something like this:
“A mother has five sons. ‘I love you sons’ she said. She worked in the towers in New York. When the plane hit the towers, the love ran out of her and into the sons. Here is one of them. When he grows up, he will help in the world. He has that much love.”
Team Velvet, Inc. is currently having child volunteers craft a Kind-ness Tree in the horse barn to remind all of us many ways kids transform trauma and obstacles into kindness toward the world. Such kindness can help nature, family, animals, and other children.
The Kindness Tree will display drawings from kids 6-12 that illustrate children’s ideas. Mail drawings to Team Velvet, Inc., PO Box 268, Rocky Hill, NJ 08553 along with the first name and age of the child and parent email address. All drawings will be posted on the Kindness Tree and parents who send an email address will receive an email certificate for each young artist.
Upcoming events: In March, the announcement for the next Visits with Horses class for children ages 10-12 will be posted. The four-week program involves strengthening emotional intelligence and resiliency in kids based on the childhood classic Black Beauty. Parents must accompany the child and there is no fee for the program which is held at our therapy horse farm in Flemington. Details follow in March.
Team Velvet, Inc. is a 501c-3 organization that provides nonmounted equine mental health counseling for children ages 6-12 who experienced trauma. For more information call Psychologist/Director Dr. Susan Edwards at 609 924 4330 to refer a child. Donations can be made at the website or via mail at Team Velvet, Inc., PO Box 268, Rocky Hill, NJ 08553.
Community News
Photo courtesy Team Velvet
Group photo of program volunteers including therapy horses Buddy (left), Precious (center), and Little Annie (far right). Board members front, far right Dr. Susan Edwards and Dr. Kathy Piparo Team Velvet Inc. Board of Directors Secretary Dr. Kathy Piparo and President Dr. Susan Edwards recently honored program volunteers at Team Velvet’s therapy facility Journeys End Farm in Flemington, NJ.
“Without volunteers like you,” Dr. Piparo explained, “we could not provide our horse therapy program for child trauma. Your selfless acts of kindness are the backbone of running a successful all-volunteer organization.”
Team Velvet volunteers work inside the barn, help with facility and pasture maintenance, and decorate the farm with seasonal displays. They also staff fundraisers like the recent “Photo Opps with Santa and His Holiday Horses” and ongoing programs. Some groom the therapy horses and serve as horse handlers in the “Visits with Horses” program designed to strengthen emotional intelligence and resiliency in children ages 10-12.
Dr. Edwards describes the diverse nature of Team Velvet’s dedicated group. “We have volunteers who just like helping , others who are ‘giving back’ to life in gratitude for what they feel has been given to them, and still others who honor a deep love of children by assisting a children’s charity that provides horse counseling in child mental health offered free to families.
Some volunteers are reminded of their country roots when they enter our farm and some just like horses. The sense of peace accompanying entry into a horse farm is a powerful emotion difficult to explain. “
Edwards continued: “I recently asked a newer volunteer who works about four hours a week what she liked about volunteering on the farm. An executive woman with an impressive career who is weekly mucking stalls and sweeping barn aisles offered a response that surprised me.”
“It’s the magic,” Mary said. “Horses and being close to the earth remind me of the powerful love that animals and nature have to offer. In my day-to-day life, I often forget that. When I leave here I always have a smile on my face.”
Dr. Kathy Piparo reminded the group that ultimately their efforts assisting Team Velvet Inc. help children heal from the effects of trauma when she said, “Your selfless kindness can help us make a difference in a child’s life. “
For more information on Team Velvet Inc. or to refer a child age 5-12 call Psychologist/Director Dr. Edwards at 609 924 4330.
Team Velvet Inc. is a 50l c-3 all-volunteer charity totally funded by donations and grants. Tax-deductible donations may be made via the website/PayPal or via mail to Team Velvet Inc., PO Box 268, Rocky Hill, NJ 08553.
Community News
Photo courtesy Team Velvet
Author’s Note: Earlier this month we received a grant to provide non-mounted horse therapy for a year to one child age 6-11 with multiple handicap and/or developmental disability who has experienced trauma. A parent or helping professional can refer the family of the child to Dr. Susan Edwards, Psychologist/Director via email at sedwardsnj@earthlink.net, answering service 609-924-4330 or cell 609-216-1910. Please share this note as there will be no fee for this service.
December 2023
At this time of year we look both back at the events of the past year and forward into the goals of the coming one.
Team Velvet Inc. continued to provide nonmounted clinical horse therapy without fee to trauma children as well as provide general developmental strengthening of emotional intelligence and resiliency through the Visits with Horses Program, Parts One and Two. Using the text Black Beauty by Anna Sewell as well as providing live interactive activities with the program’s therapy horses, the feedback from parents and children was exceptional. We will continue to offer this program for 10-12 year olds in the coming year and may expand into psychoeducational services for nine year olds.
We are looking for two donations of $2,000 each that will allow us to publish a book on managing traumatic flashbacks for kids and one on emotional healing. We also seek permanent supporters whose donations will strengthen the sustainability of our charity.
Thank you to everyone who contacted us with kind words and donations in special memory of our beloved therapy horse Velvet. His picture is included in the electronic edition of this month’s edition along with the quotation under his photo in our barn. “Forever Velvet: his love lives on through us.”
Team Velvet Inc.
Christmas Lights with Santa!
Thursday December 7th & Friday December 8th, 6-8 pm
See SANTA & this Explosion of Lights which is one of the largest private Christmas light displays in Hunterdon and surrounding counties. This is a slow drive-by event where Santa will greet passersby and accept voluntary donations to benefit Team Velvet, Inc. CLICK HERE for event details and to RSVP.
We are pleased to have this kind, gentle gelding join our
helping herd for children.
Buddy is a draft/Quarter horse/paint mix with a kind spirit who will carry on the special bond established by Velvet as the lead male horse in the herd. We thank everyone who is helping
Buddy feel at home.
CLICK HERE to read more about our new horse Buddy!
Psychologist Dr. Susan Edwards and the helping horses of Team Velvet, Inc. are offering a series of group sessions for children ages 10 to 12 to help them grow in two ways related to good mental health. The program includes non-mounted activities with the horses designed to address emotional intelligence so that children are more able to recognize and cope with feelings - their own and those of others, and to help strengthen child resilience in facing and overcoming life's obstacles. Parents may accompany their children but sessions are focused on child learning.
SESSIONS ARE SATURDAY 1-3pm
Children can attend one session or the entire series.
Session 1 - July 8th - Growing in Positive Power and Self Confidence
Session 2 - July 15 - Self Esteem
Session 3 - July 22 - Self Image
Session 4 - July 29 - Self Efficacy
The program is FREE but registration is required via email to: kpiparo64@gmail.com
Email child's name, age, and session date(s) attending.
Group size is limited so register early.
Program Co-Leaders:
Susan Edwards PhD, Psychologist
Christina Piparo, Peer Mentor/Former Volunteer of the Year
Team Velvet Uses Relationship With Horses to Help Those in Need
The concept of innovation often means designing new solutions for old problems. Animal-assisted therapy is not a new concept, but the adaptation of non-mounted clinical horse therapy to the multi-modal therapy model of the late Dr. Arnold Lazarus offers some unique elements in helping children transcend trauma and increase resiliency over aversive childhood events.
Team Velvet Inc. is a local charity providing a unique blend of psychological science with the emotional bond provided by therapy horses.
Appeared in The Chronicle, December 2024
Receiving its Letter of Determination from the IRS in 2009, Team Velvet Inc. is a small, all-volunteer organization providing non-mounted horse therapy to child trauma victims ages 6 to 12 without fee to families.
The program, supported by grants and donations, also offers a child seminar series called “Visits with Horses.” Educational training in emotional intelligence and strengthening resiliency incorporating stories on horses as public education and media development on child trauma are also part of the mission of the 501(c)3 organization.
Directed by local psychologist Susan Edwards, Ph.D., the program recognizes that children often tell animals things they seldom share with others, and those from vulnerable populations often connect with the special acceptance provided by horses who become therapy partners. The combination of learning-based cognitive therapy with the emotional acceptance of horses provides a powerful bond that can strengthen a child’s personal learning and skill-building through reduced anxiety. Interactive activities such as grooming and horse ball can also introduce elements of enjoyment and fun.
Located at Journeys End Farm in Flemington, the organization continues to welcome benefactors interested in helping to strengthen sustainability. Edwards describes benefactors of a nonprofit focused on strengthening child mental health as individuals motivated by legacy, a term summarizing the transformative power of love and relationship, as well as the desire to share with others.
“Child trauma can happen to anyone at any time,” Edwards said. “Accidents happen, loved ones die, physical and emotional loss change the landscape of a young life. Team Velvet Inc. offers one avenue for strengthening resiliency and helping youngsters overcome obstacles through the application of psychological science and clinical horse therapy. The volunteers, supporters and benefactors who have found their way to our organization are helping us help others, often in honor of loved ones who initially helped them.”
To consider volunteering, becoming a benefactor or to refer a child, contact Edwards via the website or voicemail at 609-924-4330.
The picture accompanying this article was taken from the annual fall fundraiser, which happened after press time. It depicts therapy horse Buddy interacting with Santa Rick, of Hunterdon. The two are involved in a major discussion of one of the purposes of the fundraiser – to help with the medical expense of lead therapy mare Precious, who received cancer surgery earlier this year.
This column will feature inspiring nonprofits that serve the Hunterdon County community, as well as the local volunteers who make the work happen.
Happy Fall
From Little Annie, Buddy, and The Therapy Horses of Team Velvet Inc.
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2021
Press Release: Northfield Bank Foundation Awards Grant to Team Velvet, Inc.
Press Release: Team Velvet, Inc. Wins Second National Film Festival Award
Press Release: Send a Valentine, Help Children
2020
Press Release: New Video: Team Velvet Inc. Horses Visit the Happy Horse Hat Shop
Press Release: New Videos Aimed At Helping Kids Cope With Covid
Press Release: Two New Board Members Join Team Velvet, Inc.
Press Release: How To Hear The Animal Workshop with Anita Curtis to be held March 21 and 22.
2019
Press Release: Fundraising event: Photos With Santa And Team Velvet
"Santa Goes to Heaven" Coloring Book, (c) 2019, ISBN#978-0-578-56013-7, by Dr. Susan Edwards. For children who have lost a parent or loved one.
Press Release "Santa Goes to Heaven" Coloring Book, (c) 2019, ISBN#978-0-578-56013-7
"Little Horse, Big Medicine" Award Winning video, 2018
This "Little Horse, Big Medicine" video was produced in the Summer and Fall of 2018 entirely by Dr. Susan Edwards and Team Velvet, Inc. volunteers. The video was submitted to the EQUUS FILM FESTIVAL of Dec. 2, 2018, in Brooklyn, NY and was the winner of the "Horses As Healers", Minnie Category.
Press Release Dec. 2018
2019
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Photos with Santa Fundraiser
TAPinto.net
NJFamily
https://www.njfamily.com/events/holiday-photos-with-santa-rick-and-team-velvet/
Hunterdon Review
The Independent
VIP Newsletter, Ringoes
WDVR Radio Newsletter
2017 and earlier
Click Image to
Visit our Friends at
2018
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PBS Channel 39 WLTV (Hunterdon County, NJ) NEWS TONIGHT visits Team Velvet, Inc.
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"Horses Helping Children" video segment, first aired on December 27, 2018.
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"Team Velvet Gets A Visit From PBS"
December 28, 2018, https://www.tapinto.net/sections/horses/articles/...
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"Little Horse, Big Medicine" Award Winning video, 2018
This "Little Horse, Big Medicine" video was produced in the Summer and Fall of 2018 entirely by Dr. Susan Edwards and Team Velvet, Inc. volunteers. The video was submitted to the EQUUS FILM FESTIVAL of Dec. 2, 2018, in Brooklyn, NY and was the winner of the "Horses As Healers", Minnie Category.-
Press Release Dec. 2018
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"Big Award for Little Horse", article Bucks County Herald, Dec. 27, 2018
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"Local little horse healer documentary wins 2018 Equus Film Festival award"
Dec. 12, 2018, Hunterdon Review
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"Small Horse, Big Medicine" Article by Susan Edwards, PhD
MaryJanesFarm Magazine, Dec '18 - Jan 2019 issue, p. 22
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Northfield Bank Awards $5,000 Grant To Team Velvet ...
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Northfield Bank Awards $5,000 Grant To Team Velvet Where Horses Help Traumatized Children
Aug. 20, 2018 www.tapinto.net/sections/horses/articles/... -
Northfield Bank Foundation grants $5,000 to Team Velvet equine therapies
Aug. 24, 2018 Hunterdon Review
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"Flemington's Team Velvet receives donation from Honor Society"
June 14, 2018, Hunterdon County Democrat -
"Announcing the Establishment of a Child Trauma Fund"
May, 2018, Ringoes, NJ VIP (Very Interested People) community newsletter -
"Sometimes it takes a horse"
5/10/2018 Bucks County Herald Accompanying Pub. "Horses, Horses, Horses" p.14
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New Team Velvet Inc. Board Members
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Team Velvet Welcomes New Board Members
4/12/2018 Bucks County Herald -
Team Velvet Welcomes New Board Members
2/20/2018 Hunterdon County Democrat
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"Farmgirl Spunk" Article by Susan Edwards, PhD
MaryJanesFarm Magazine, I'll Be Home section, Dec-Jan 2018, P. 24
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Team Velvet Fashion, Talent Show & Fundraiser Oct 18. 2017
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Photos: Team Velvet Equine Costume Show
10/22/2017 HORSES AS HEALERS - By Lillian Shupe -
'Silly Halloween' Event Benefits Team Velvet
.09/21/2017 HORSES AS HEALERS, By www.TAPINTO.net Staff -
Team Velvet Horse Fashion and Talent Show fundraiser set for Oct. 18 in Flemington
10/7/2015 By Staff | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
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Equine Education: Curring Edge therapy teaches patience and stronger self-esteem
9/22/2015 Pennington Post
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Stepping out in Fashion
4/2015 NJ.COM
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Horse News: Photo contest winner (Velvet Page 5)
2/2013 New Jersey Horse News
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My Favorite Hay Man by Velvet
2012 article submitted to Lancaster Farming for review
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Velvet's Letter to Santa...Farm Link Program gives gift of networking
12/23/2011 Courier News
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Team Velvet, Inc. helps children, look for home
5/5/2010 Pennington Post
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Equine program assisting traumatized children looking for home
7/8/2010 Bucks County Herald
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Lord Stirling Exhibition - Horses Help Kids Ride Out Stress
7/16/2011 Courier News
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Mental health group seeks donation of horse farm
3/2010 Hunterdon County Democrat
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Ringoes Horse Therapy Charity Seeks Land
3/2010 Mid-Atlantic Horse, Lancaster Farming
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This horse needs a place to party
4/2010 Hopewell Express
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Request for a Donated Farm
2009 Hunterdon Democrat
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Profile of a Natural Performer
11/2009 International Media, Canada, Equine Wellness
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Trakehner Horses as Therapy Horses, Those Amazing Trakehners: International Sport, Show and Therapy Horses
Spring 2008 Issue, American Trakehner Magazine
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Equine Facilitated Mental Health (EFMH) and Horse Soccer for Kids
Summer, 2007 Journal of Equine Facilitated Mental Health
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East Amwell School Soccer Team to Face Off Against Therapy Horse
3/2006, Horse News