Wade Hampton Sertoma Club Received Grant

Sertoma International awarded $2,000 to the Columbia-based club for equine therapy support.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Philanthropy

Wade Hampton Sertoma Club Received Grant

Live Poll

Should local community groups prioritize funding for equine therapy programs serving veterans and first responders?

The Wade Hampton Sertoma Club of Columbia has received a $2,000 grant from Sertoma International. These funds will support the Form Up Friday equine therapy program at the Big Red Barn Retreat Center.

Why it matters

This funding bolsters the therapeutic resources available to local military members, veterans, and emergency responders. By supporting equine therapy, the grant directly enhances mental health services for those in high-stress professions.

Sertoma International awarded $2,000 to the local club through the Sertoma Club Grant Program. The funds are designated to support the equine therapy activities at the Big Red Barn Retreat Center.

The players

Wade Hampton Sertoma Club

This is a local service organization based in Columbia that focuses on supporting community health and wellness initiatives.

Sertoma International

This is a global civic organization that provides financial support and resources to local clubs for community-based service projects.

Big Red Barn Retreat Center

This facility offers therapeutic programs, including equine therapy, specifically for military veterans and first responders.

Karen Baier

She is a representative of the organization who participated in the formal presentation of the grant funds.

Mitch Ray

He is the recipient of the grant funds on behalf of the retreat center.

The details

The grant was presented by Karen Baier and Linda Vandiver to Mitch Ray to assist with operations at the Big Red Barn Retreat Center. This center serves first responders, 911 operators, EMT professionals, and veterans with specific equine-assisted mental health programs.

The grant was presented to the Big Red Barn in 2026.

Market Landscape

This contribution follows the operational framework set by the Sertoma Club Grant Program. The distribution of these funds illustrates the continued focus of regional service clubs on specialized wellness support for high-stakes professions.

Local veterans and first responders gain improved access to mental health resources through the expanded equine therapy offerings. The grant ensures that the Form Up Friday program can continue its specialized support for those serving the Columbia area.

The takeaway

Equine therapy programs remain a vital resource for addressing the mental health needs of those in high-stress service roles. Residents can support these efforts by volunteering time or resources to local organizations that provide specialized trauma care.