Hundreds of runners support healing Ironstone farm

Hundreds turn out for annual Ironstone Derby 5K in Andover
Eagle Tribune
By Kelsey Bode
8 hrs ago

ANDOVER — Nearly 300 runners gathered Sunday beneath a clear, blue sky to raise money and awareness during the fifth annual Ironstone Derby 5K.

“Happy Father’s Day to all the dads,” said Deedee O’Brien, executive director of Ironstone Farm. “We are really happy to be here.”

The 5K helps support programs at the farm, which serve children with disabilities, people of all ages with autism, veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, those diagnosed with cancer, and teen development programs, O’Brien said.

“We really appreciate everybody turning out this year for Ironstone,” said Neil Fater, the farm’s marketing director.

Fater pointed to a farmhouse being renovated to house veterans for weekend programs.

“People coming here for retreats can stay here,” Fater said of the farmhouse. “For veterans, having an immersive experience is really powerful. We appreciate people coming out to support kids and veterans. There are lots of great fathers here.”
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