Monday, May 08, 2006
Vermont Therapeutic Riding Program Begins its 17th Season
Equestrian Challenges, located at Mazza Horse Services in Bridport, Vermont, is a therapeutic horseback riding program whose riders are children and adults, ages 2 ½ years –70 years. Approximately 30 ride each year. The program has two sessions- one begins in May and the other in early September.
The program is seventeen years old and serves people from Addison, Rutland and Chittenden counties. These are west-central Vermont counties. Equestrian Challenges provides services ranging from recreational riding for people unable to ride in conventional programs, to advanced hippo therapy with services of a physical therapist. The activities of Equestrian Challenges are adapted so that people with physical, mental or psychological challenges can participate in equine sports.
The horse is a strong motivator. Its natural movement challenges a rider’s balance, posture, mobility and strength. Many participants become independent riders. All riders gain self-confidence, improve motor and communication skills, and increase coordination. Any riding experience through Equestrian Challenges is worthwhile and fun!
We encourage new people to participate in the program and offer many scholarships for those who need them. Volunteers are needed as well. Volunteers serve as horse handlers (leading the horse) and safety assistants (sidewalkers).
If you or someone you know would benefit from this program or if you would like to become a volunteer, contact Krista Massimo (EC Board Treasurer) 802-877-3397, Deb Mazza, (barn owner/instructor), 802-349-7073 or Dave Rosen (EC Board Chair), 802-453-5655.
Equestrian Challenges is a non-profit organization and will gratefully accept any financial support as well. Checks may be made out and sent to: Equestrian Challenges, PO Box 385, Middlebury, VT 05753.
I wanted to let everyone know about this powerful program that I have had the privilege of teaching since May of 1999. Please don't hesitate to call or email me with any questions or comments you might have about this. Also, feel free to post a blog comment if you have any thoughts or experience with therapeutic riding.
deb@myhorsetreasures.com
The program is seventeen years old and serves people from Addison, Rutland and Chittenden counties. These are west-central Vermont counties. Equestrian Challenges provides services ranging from recreational riding for people unable to ride in conventional programs, to advanced hippo therapy with services of a physical therapist. The activities of Equestrian Challenges are adapted so that people with physical, mental or psychological challenges can participate in equine sports.
The horse is a strong motivator. Its natural movement challenges a rider’s balance, posture, mobility and strength. Many participants become independent riders. All riders gain self-confidence, improve motor and communication skills, and increase coordination. Any riding experience through Equestrian Challenges is worthwhile and fun!
We encourage new people to participate in the program and offer many scholarships for those who need them. Volunteers are needed as well. Volunteers serve as horse handlers (leading the horse) and safety assistants (sidewalkers).
If you or someone you know would benefit from this program or if you would like to become a volunteer, contact Krista Massimo (EC Board Treasurer) 802-877-3397, Deb Mazza, (barn owner/instructor), 802-349-7073 or Dave Rosen (EC Board Chair), 802-453-5655.
Equestrian Challenges is a non-profit organization and will gratefully accept any financial support as well. Checks may be made out and sent to: Equestrian Challenges, PO Box 385, Middlebury, VT 05753.
I wanted to let everyone know about this powerful program that I have had the privilege of teaching since May of 1999. Please don't hesitate to call or email me with any questions or comments you might have about this. Also, feel free to post a blog comment if you have any thoughts or experience with therapeutic riding.
deb@myhorsetreasures.com
