There’s a new herd of smiling faces at the OATS (Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles) center.
The OATS of Clarkston has a new board of directors and new executive director ? long-time volunteer and Citizen of the Year Sandy Maberry. The new board of directors was appointed this past spring, but is still taking shape after only two meetings.
OATS is a non-profit organization with an all-volunteer staff that uses a unique equine assisted therapy for more than 80 students on a year-round basis. The program offers summer camps and several parties and holiday events.
The program sits upon 50 acres of land on the north side of Clarkston. The facility was founded in 1997 by Nancy Lee Heussner and provides therapy for children and adults with autism, cerebral palsy and Down Syndrome.
Mabery has volunteered with the group for more than a year. He is the owner of Pine Tree Place Assisted Living in Clarkston.
‘His background and his caring ability for the elderly’that’s a big asset here,? said Heussner.
Mabery said he is looking forward to utilizing the business connections the new board members have to secure more grants, both business and government.
‘I think it will be very interesting, we have a very well qualified board,? Mabery said.
‘We all come from different walks of life, we all offer something different,? he added.
Mabery said he is hoping that through grants, OATS will expand its services by adding an aquatic center or an activity center.
Mabery received his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Oakland University in 1981. He is a former automotive consultant at Hartwick Professionals Inc., which he founded. He is currently working toward his horse riding certification through the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association.
The new board of directors includes: James Henderson, Chairman of BNP Media; Izabela and Richard Koscienly, both physical therapists and founders of ‘Cerebral Palsy Magazine;? Amy Gross, president and CEO of Entech’s Medical Staffing division; Debra Pullen, owner of the Clarkston Pharmacy; Jeff Reed, assistant vice president of Comerica Bank’s Clarkston branch; and Sharon Robertson serving as the OATS parent advisory position.
OATS is located at 3090 Weidemann Drive. For more information visit http://www.oatshrh.org. OATS can be reached at 248-620-1775.