Creating Pathways to Wellness

Annie DiSilva

Annie graduated from Keene State College with degrees in Early Childhood Development and
Elementary Education and received a Certificate of Completion from Antioch University in the
Autism Spectrum Disorders Program. Along with serving on the Board for Dusty Dog
Farm/Coopers Crossroad, she serves on the Board of Trustees for Cedarcrest Center, and has
spent many years working with, and advocating for, individuals with disabilities.
Annie lives in West Chesterfield, NH with her husband, David, and is the proud Mom/Mother-in-law of 3 sons and 1 daughter-in-law.

In 1997, Annie was introduced to Equine Therapy to assist with the growth and development of
her oldest son, D.J. Observing the immediate connection D.J. established with the horses, along with the development of communication skills and a positive mindset, was both surprising, yetwelcoming, and has been a part of his life since. In 2020, while establishing a vocationalprogram at a local school in Keene, N.H., Annie met Christina Major. The personal, social and emotional growth the students displayed through their work with Coopers Crossroad not onlyearned a sense of respect towards Christina by Annie, but she knew that her son would benefit from her, and the farm as well.

D.J. and Annie have not only become passionate about the people and the mission of
DDF/Coopers Crossroad, but it has become an integral part of their lives. Annie states that,
"Establishing and maintaining positive relations can be challenging for some individuals.
Grooming, riding and interacting with the horses and other individuals at the farm helps to build confidence, improve communication skills and to process emotions. I've witnessed this
firsthand, and it is purely magical!"