Fortifi Bank Supports Exceptional Equestrians Expansion with Groundbreaking Celebration
Fortifi Bank joined Exceptional Equestrians, community leaders, donors, volunteers, and supporters on June 1 to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new indoor riding arena and therapy center in De Pere. The project marks a major milestone in Exceptional Equestrians’ Path Forward Campaign and will expand access to life-changing equine-assisted services for children and adults with disabilities throughout Northeast Wisconsin.
Fortifi Bank provided financing for the expansion and has proudly supported Exceptional Equestrians as the organization continues to grow its impact across the region.
For more than 25 years, Exceptional Equestrians has helped individuals build confidence, independence, and essential life skills through equine-assisted therapy, adaptive horsemanship, and educational programming. The organization currently serves families from throughout Northeast Wisconsin and has become a trusted resource for individuals seeking innovative therapeutic services.
The new facility will allow Exceptional Equestrians to increase program capacity, expand year-round services, and create additional opportunities for participants to experience healing, growth, and connection through interactions with horses.
“Exceptional Equestrians is one of those organizations that immediately stands out because of the impact it has on people’s lives,” said Logan Madson, Business Banker at Fortifi Bank. “As we’ve gotten to know their team and their vision for the future, it became clear how important this project is—not only for the families they serve today, but for those they’ll be able to serve in the years ahead. We’re proud to be part of helping make that future possible.”
Madson, who serves clients throughout the Green Bay area, worked closely with Exceptional Equestrians leadership throughout the financing process and attended the groundbreaking ceremony alongside community partners and supporters.
The expansion reflects years of planning, fundraising, and community support. Once completed, the new indoor riding arena and therapy center will provide a modern space designed to support continued growth while helping ensure consistent access to services regardless of weather conditions.
“Community banking is about investing in organizations that strengthen the communities we serve,” said Jeff Duffrin, Senior Vice President and Business Banking Manager at Fortifi Bank. “Exceptional Equestrians has built an incredible reputation for changing lives through its programs, and we’re honored to support an organization that is creating such a meaningful impact across Northeast Wisconsin.”
The June 1 groundbreaking ceremony brought together supporters from across the region to celebrate the beginning of construction and the next chapter in Exceptional Equestrians’ mission. The event highlighted the collaborative effort among donors, volunteers, community partners, and local businesses who have helped bring the project to life.
As a community bank celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2026, Fortifi Bank remains committed to supporting local organizations, businesses, and initiatives that help Wisconsin communities grow and thrive.
