A new chapter for TEC began in the fall of 2021 thanks to the family of Jane M. Hiler. We are beyond grateful to Bruce Hiler, Patty Molter, and their family for their wonderful generosity in their mother’s name.  Their donation allowed TEC to purchase the former Cadence Equestrian Center in Buchanan, located at 1207 E. Galien-Buchanan Road.  We are beyond excited to see how we will grow TEC in this new location and to build a legacy that honors Jane.

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On April 23, 2022, TEC had the pleasure of hosting a special dedication ceremony at the new barn as we name it in her honor - Jane M. Hiler Facility.

 

Jane was a lifelong Berrien County resident from 1931 to 2020.  She and her husband, Vernon, farmed and raised their five children here.  She earned a Bachelors of Arts and Master’s degree in special education, and did advanced studies in education and criminal justice, from the University of Notre Dame.  Jane held positions with numerous area schools and organizations, working tirelessly with children with disabilities; as well as, juveniles in the criminal justice system.  Her passion for helping others also led her to spend time in the Peace Corp, serving families in a mountain village in Jamaica.

 

After Jane passed away, her children were inspired to create a legacy in her name. They reached out to TEC last summer and discussions began on how they could achieve their mission. It was then that a blessing occurred and a dream of TEC owning their own location became a reality. Thanks to a generous donation from Jane’s family, TEC was able to secure the purchase of the former Cadence Equestrian Center in Buchanan (MI). The property includes more than 14-acres of land, a barn with large stalls for the horses, an impressive indoor arena, several pastures, and an outdoor arena.

 

“We are so grateful and appreciative to Bruce Hiler and Patty Molter for reaching out to TEC,” said Autumn Zick, TEC Board President and PATH Instructor. “Their family’s generosity has given TEC the opportunity to obtain a place to call our own, find a facility that meets our needs and will allow us to grow into the future, and expand our services to more communities in Southwest Michigan and the Michiana area.”

 

Below is a map/direction to the barn.  You'll also find some pics and YouTube videos from the event.