Marley's Mission will soon make its Lackawanna County debut.
On Monday, contractors from Leeward Construction are scheduled to begin site and ground work at the nonprofit's new home - a 32-acre property on Port Royal Road in Newton Twp.
Once that's complete, workers will start building the two indoor therapeutic arenas, a 15-stall horse stable and a welcome center, all "essential" components that comprise phase one of a $1 million project, said Marley's Mission President Gene Talerico.
Officials expect the first phase, which costs about $600,000, will be done by July 5, when they plan to have the equine therapy facility "up and running," Mr. Talerico said.
So far, the organization has secured about $420,000 through private donations, fundraisers and foundations, leaving it $180,000 short of the needed funding.
When asked if he is concerned the organization won't have the necessary funding, Mr. Talerico said "absolutely not."
"We are all committed to the concept of building hope, and we will build it by July 5," he said.
Founded in 2010, Marley's Mission provides equine-based therapy to children and their families who have experienced trauma.
The organization has operated mostly out of its farm in Wayne County.
Looking to expand its boundaries and move to a more accessible location, the organization purchased the property from resident Keith Eckel in 2012.
Now, to help fund its move, Marley's Mission has launched a Twitter campaign, called #SummerofHope, said Rebecca Haggerty, board of directors vice president.
Officials bought 1,000 bracelets inscribed with "Summer of Hope," and are selling them for $20 each.
"We are raising the last bit of funding for this endeavor, and we know everyone cannot contribute $10,000, so we are asking for $20," Ms. Haggerty said. "We want the community to be a part of the building of hope, the building of our new home."
Longtime Newton Twp. Supervisor Ron Koldjeski said he plans to welcome the organization "with open arms."
"I think it's going to be phenomenal," he said. "It's a great cause, and we are very glad it's located here."
Contact the writer: miorfino@timesshamrock.com, @miorfinoTT on Twitter