BLOOMINGTON — Nearly one year ago, on May 16, 2025, an EF-2 tornado tore through Monroe County, leaving a path of destruction that fundamentally altered the landscape of the local community. Among the hardest hit was PALS (People & Animal Learning Services), a therapeutic horseback riding nonprofit that faced a disaster it had never anticipated.
Today, as the anniversary of the storm approaches, the organization is celebrating a story of grit, recovery, and a community that refused to let a mission be blown away.
The tornado leveled primary structures on the PALS campus, but it could not dampen the spirit of the organization. In an extraordinary display of resilience, PALS was back to offering lessons in an outdoor arena to dedicated clients less than one month after the barn was destroyed.
Staff members worked tirelessly to stretch every insurance dollar, maintaining operations even as debris from the damaged barn was being hauled away.
“While May 16, 2025, will forever be remembered as a day of challenge and loss, it also marks the beginning of an incredible journey of recovery,” said Christine Herring, Executive Director of PALS. “We are grateful for the outpouring of support from our neighbors, partners, and friends who stood with us every step of the way.”
Over the past 12 months, PALS has successfully rebuilt its main barn and used the opportunity to enhance its emergency preparedness protocols. The success of the rebuild is credited to a massive community response and careful stewardship of resources.
Before the storm, PALS was a lifeline for the region, serving more than 870 individuals annually through 3,000+ customized sessions for:
- At-risk youth
- Veterans
- Seniors
- Individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities
While the structure stands again, the recovery journey is not yet over. Rising construction costs, insurance deductibles, and unforeseen expenses have left PALS with a significant financial shortfall.
To bridge this gap, the nonprofit has launched a major gifts campaign titled “Raise the Barn: Where Healing Finds a Home.” The campaign seeks to cover remaining construction costs and ensure the facility is fully equipped to serve as a lasting sanctuary for the community.
PALS is currently working with Monroe County officials on final inspections and “punch list” items before a full move-in.
PALS provides therapeutic programs with horses to promote joy, better health, and empowerment for people of all ages and abilities. For those interested in supporting the recovery or learning more about their services, visit palsindiana.org.
