Centaur Stride Therapeutic Horseback Riding Facility was created to provide people with disabilities the healing benefits of horseback riding in a natural environment. The facility promotes inclusion by allowing individuals without disabilities to interact with those with disabilities, fostering personal growth and empathy. Westfield Academy & Central School students visited the facility to learn about health and disabilities, witnessing riders with Cerebral Palsy demonstrate their skills on horseback.
The horse serves as a natural equalizer for individuals who cannot walk, providing mobility and muscle activation similar to normal walking. Participants with disabilities experience physical exercise and practice on the horse, leading to significant gains in mobility. Centaur Stride has become a Co-Ser partner with B.O.C.E.S., aiming to expand the “healing with horses” experiences to more schools. Donations and volunteers are welcomed to support the facility’s mission of improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.
The joy and benefits of providing services at Centaur Stride were unexpected, as those who helped found personal growth and fulfillment in the process. The facility encourages donations, volunteers, and engagement with their programs to continue helping others. Westfield Academy & Central School’s unit on health and disabilities was commended, and the facility hopes to expand its reach to more schools to provide therapeutic horseback riding experiences.
