Jimmy Moran Indoor Arena

The Jimmy Moran Indoor Arena: The Background 

Main entrance to the Jimmy Moran Indoor Arena

Today, the program that began with one therapeutic rider has grown to serve thousands. Just as the amount of riders increased, so too have the programs; and they have not just grown in number, they have evolved in their sophistication.

Always a pioneer, Thorncroft never rests in its efforts to move forward. This cherished sentiment lead to the construction of the brand new Jimmy Moran Indoor Arena. Generously funded by Mrs. J. Maxwell Moran and the Moran Family Charitable Foundation, the North Paddock transformed from an opportunity to accommodate more riders to a reality that will benefit many.

Mrs. J. Maxwell Moran accepts flowers from Saunders Dixon, right, at the Lobster Bake dedication ceremony of the new arena, named for the memory of her son Jimmy Moran

Not only will programs that have been apart of Thorncroft since its opening in 1969, but the Jimmy Moran Indoor will be the home of the most recent ground-breaking equestrian therapy: Equine Therapeutic Alliance (ETA). ETA is a pilot equine-assisted psychotherapy program based on The Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA). The program is currently run by Michael Blanche, a licensed clinical social worker with 14 years of experience specializing in addiction treatment, along with Caroline Fenkel, a rider since age 3 and a senior at Delaware Valley College working towards a degree in Equine Studies with a minor in Counseling Psychology. Michael and Caroline are also both EAGALA certified.  

“It was a moment in Chicago during training, after months of collaborating with Michael, when I just decided to really get going and call Sallie,” says Fenkel as she recalls the genesis of ETA and its relationship with Thorncroft.

The ambitious attitude of Blanche and Fenkel compliments Thorncroft’s trail-blazing spirit. As these two forces come together, individuals age 14-30 who suffer from anxiety, depression, substance abuse, OCD, Bi-polar disorder, conduct issues, and eating disorders have the opportunity to receive help and support from ETA at Thorncroft.

The visitor observation area attached to the new indoor arena

Without the Jimmy Moran Indoor Arena, there would be very little room for this ground-breaking program to grow. Thorncroft is eternally grateful to the belief and generosity of Mrs. J. Maxwell Moran and the many donors, volunteers, and riders who continue to support in Thorncroft and its cause.