April 24th, 2024 – Empire State Development (ESD) recently announced the completion of Pal-O-Mine Equestrian’s $3 million facility expansion in Islandia. Pal-O-Mine is a non-profit organization that utilizes therapeutic equine programs to promote growth, learning, and healing for children and adults with disabilities. Supported by a $600,000 capital grant from Empire State Development, recommended by the Long Island Regional Economic Development Council, the expansion will boost its capacity for job training, workforce preparedness, and internship programs. These services will provide crucial skills and support that empowers these individuals to overcome employment barriers and achieve greater independence and success in their lives.

Empire State Development President CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Pal-O-Mine's expansion is more than just an infrastructure upgrade; it's a catalyst for change that empowers our most vulnerable citizens to lead fulfilling lives and contribute to a more inclusive economy. By investing in innovative programs that deliver essential vocational training and support services, we are unlocking the potential of these individuals and fortifying the social and economic fabric of our society."

Pal-O-Mine Equestrian Founder & CEO Lisa Gatti said, “We are immensely grateful to Empire State Development and the Long Island Economic Development Council for supporting our work. The ESD grant allows Pal-O-Mine the space to continue to empower, educate and enrich the most underserved communities and most importantly provide experiences to those individuals who desire to learn viable job skills. Working with our horses instills a newfound sense of confidence and self-worth, which serves as a foundation for their personal and professional growth journey."

Since its inception in 1995, Pal-O-Mine has been at the forefront of using horses to facilitate growth, learning, and healing, serving over 400 individuals weekly. The programs offer personalized support and training to high-risk youth and adults with disabilities, aiming to increase participants' independence, community integration, and economic security. The expansion has transformed the facility, creating nearly 5,000 square feet of enhanced space to better serve its participants. The project involved the renovation of two existing structures to ensure ADA compliance, accessibility, and safety for all individuals. Additionally, a new 2,000-square-foot prefabricated building has been constructed, providing much-needed space for expanded programming and services.

The acquisition of new equipment has enhanced the center's capacity to deliver equine-assisted therapy services, workforce training, and internship programs. By combining classroom learning with hands-on experience on the farm, participants develop a broad range of vocational and life skills. Through partnerships with local businesses and organizations, the Farm facilitates internships, apprenticeships, and job placement opportunities for program participants. The expansion and enhancement of these initiatives helps equip students with the tools and support necessary to overcome obstacles and achieve success in the workforce and beyond.

“Pal-O-Mine provides essential and therapeutic equine services to our residents who are in need, including our veterans. With Suffolk County being home to the largest veterans’ population in the state, we are grateful for the various initiatives the organization provides to our hometown heroes who are experiencing emotional or physical trauma. I applaud our partners for coming together to complete this expansion project, which will further empower our residents,” said Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine.

“We are grateful to Empire State Development, and the Governor, for investing in the important work that Pal-O-Mine Equestrian does to benefit those with special needs, veterans, and others throughout our Islip community. Equine therapy offers tremendous mental health benefits, and we are so happy they will be able to expand this important program,” said Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter.