The Pal-O-Mine Equestrian Center in Islandia is having its biggest and best year yet. This non-profit therapeutic horse program just celebrated its 30th anniversary, having first opened its barn doors in 1995. Specializing in equine therapy tailored to individuals with disabilities, survivors of trauma, veterans, and first responders, Pal-O-Mine carries a unique mission: to help its students grow, learn, and heal throughout life. Today, it stands as one of Long Island’s most prominent equine-assisted programs, continuing to change lives through the powerful bond between humans and horses.
Lisa Gatti, founder and CEO of Pal-O-Mine, was inspired to start the
organization after receiving a book from her father while in college. The story followed a young girl whose life was changed by a devastating accident that left her in a wheelchair. Through the love and connection of both people and horses, the girl discovered a renewed sense of purpose. From that moment, Lisa knew the path she wanted to take – and she has never looked back.
Fast forward to the present day, and Pal-O-Mine has grown into a thriving foundation spanning 13 acres across four properties. The property is home to 25 working horses, as well as miniature horses, donkeys, chickens, and sheep. With the support of more than 85 dedicated volunteers, Pal-O-Mine has positively impacted the lives of over 15,000 participants.
Although horse therapy is the heartbeat of the organization, there is much more to Pal-O-Mine. The organization offers a variety of other programs. These include Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL), Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP), speech and occupational therapy, the Job Security Through Equine Partnership (J-STEP) vocational program, specialized services for military members and first responders, corporate leadership training, welding classes, horticulture classes, yoga, and wellness experiences.
Pal-O-Mine also offers unique events designed to serve a wide range of groups. Weekend-long retreats for military personnel, veterans, and others are a regular part of their programming. These retreats often incorporate self-care activities, horse therapy, and additional wellness experiences, with participants staying on the property in Pal-O-Mine’s residential house.
In addition to retreats, Pal-O-Mine hosts annual fairs and festivals, many of which are open to the public. Their upcoming Open House and Fall Festival on October 13 will feature farm tours, crafts, scavenger hunts, horsemanship demonstrations, raffles, and more. Later in the month, on October 19, they will hold their VetFest and NYPD Fundraiser, further highlighting their strong ties to the community. To close out the year, Pal-O-Mine will host its annual Winter Wonderland in December, complete with holiday treats, a walk-through light show, and the chance to take photos with Santa.
The property is full of spaces designed for both participants and animals to enjoy. A large, accessible playground is available for children, and during equine therapy lessons, horses will even drop participants off there at the end of a ride. Pal-O-Mine also features a unique “horse playground,” complete with obstacle courses that both riders and horses can navigate together, adding fun, variety, and challenge to the experience.
The garden and greenhouse on the property are integral to Pal-O-Mine’s vocational program. Here, young adults with disabilities cultivate flowers, vegetables, herbs, and fruits, gaining hands-on experience and practical life skills. Participants harvest their own produce and transform it into items such as soaps, decorations, and other handmade goods. Some of these products, including fresh flowers, are even sold to local shops across Long Island, giving participants both pride in their work and real-world job training opportunities.
Beyond the expansion of programs and facilities over the years, Pal-O-Mine has been accomplished by the strength and generosity of the community. Countless donations and grants have supported the organization, recognizing the hard work that Lisa Gatti and her team continue to put into making a difference on Long Island.
Recently, Pal-O-Mine received an $8,000 grant from Suffolk County, presented by County Executive Ed Romaine. The funding, made possible through proceeds from the 2024 Suffolk County Marathon, will be used to enhance programs specifically designed for veterans and their families.
The opportunities at Pal-O-Mine are endless. As Pal-O-Mine celebrates 30 years of service, its mission remains as strong as ever: to foster healing, growth, and connection through the powerful bond between humans and horses. With continued community support, dedicated staff and volunteers, and an ever-expanding range of programs, the organization is poised to make an even greater impact in the decades to come. Pal-O-Mine stands as a shining example of what can be accomplished when compassion, vision, and community come together.
By Madison Warren
This article appeared in the Smithtown Messenger, October 9, 2025
