Dear Ocala Farm Ministry Supporter,

2007 was a fantastic year for the Ocala Farm Ministry, we ccomplished many of our goals and feel that we had a true impact on our horse community. We have received great support from the local community, forming liaisons with many in the political arena, law enforcement and religious leadership.

Our primary goal of 2007 was to purchase land for the much desired OFM community center named after the late local horseman, Robert Scanlon. As many of you know we have long championed a dream of building a community center to provide religious, social, educational and recreational activities for our horse farm workers and their families.

Our prayers were answered in April, when we purchased 8 acres just off of HWY 40. Along the way, we made our presence known as we overcame several zoning issues. Not only did we receive the zoning changes, but we demonstrated the strength of the Ocala Farm Ministry to our community.

The OFM also played host to two major events for the children. The 2007 "The Greatest Story Ever Told" Live Nativity and the 2007 Easter Egg Hunt. Both events were a tremendous success and with the smiles and squeals of delight from the children were a true reward for the many volunteers who worked tirelessly for these events.

Adena Springs South partnered with the OFM for a "Fun Family Farm Challenge" Golf and Volleyball tournament with all proceeds to benefit the OFM…It was a wonderful time for all: the golf players were impressed by the wonderful and challenging course on the farm, the volleyball players showed fierce determination and the children had a great time playing old fashioned games such as the sack race and the egg and spoon race, as well as enjoying the water slides and bounce house that Adena Springs provided. It was truly an event enjoyed by all!

Scouting and Soccer is our latest community project. The Boy Scouts Of America approached the OFM to help them organize a soccer league targeting the Hispanic youth of our community. Our initial goal of 30–40 children aged 5–12 was quickly surpassed. Our weekly games have an attendance of over 60 children!

We are continually impressed by the skill, determination and sheer pleasure that these youngsters demonstrate. For many of these kids it is the first opportunity that they have had to play in an organized league. The children were allowed to name their teams within the theme of famous racehorses. The chosen names were: The Barbaros, The Curlins, The Rags To Riches, The Street Senses, The Speightstowns, and The Dudes.

Our fundraisers have generated over $400,000 in the past two years. The success of "The Call To The Post Dinner and Auction" has created the opportunity for the OFM to be active in our horse community, enabled the purchase of the land for our future home and afforded the opportunity to help so many in need. We have also been blessed with a donation of $50,000 from the Florida Thoroughbred Farm Managers towards our community center.

In summary, 2007 was a year that the OFM truly was able to reach out and help many in our farm community. It is your continued support that enables the OFM to truly be "dedicated to helping to those who help the horses."

Sincerely,