The Mystic Mountain Training Center barn, built in 1982, now lies in ruins after a devastating fire ravaged it completely on Sunday. Marie Olczak reflects on the unwavering dedication of 25 volunteers who arrived at 9 a.m. and spent the entire day rebuilding the 12 stalls destroyed in the blaze, ensuring that the 10 displaced horses had a safe place to stay.

“We knew we had a strong camp community, but seeing everybody in action, with people we don’t even know reaching out, has been really amazing,” said Marie Olczak.

The barn wasn’t just a building—it was home to the animals and housed all of their essential supplies. Its loss has left the Olczak family in shock, turning their lives upside down.

“It was the first building on this property that my in-laws built, so it’s been much harder for them, especially sentimentally,” Marie explained.

Marie, who was the first to witness the fire, recalls the shock she felt as she saw the flames—but also the overwhelming sense of relief when she saw that all the horses had been safe

“When we got here and saw the horses were outside, it was definitely a moment of praise. You can replace things, you can rebuild a barn, but you can’t replace these guys,” Marie said.