Therapeutic horseback riding provides numerous benefits for individuals with disabilities, including improved physical mobility, muscle tone, and emotional well-being. Special Equestrians Therapeutic Riding Center serves clients with various conditions such as Cerebral Palsy, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and PTSD, fostering interpersonal relationships and trust through the unique bond between horses and riders. Founded in 1982, the center is dedicated to making its services accessible to all, offering tuition assistance for those in need.
Janice Witt, the executive director, emphasizes the center’s mission to enhance the well-being of individuals with disabilities through equine experiences. With a background in therapeutic riding and occupational therapy, Witt highlights the healing nature of horses, which can sense and respond to human emotions, aiding in self-awareness and communication skills. The center offers a range of programs, including therapeutic riding, occupational therapy, and mental health support.
Despite the positive impact of equine-assisted therapies, the center faces challenges such as limited funding and a high demand for services, with over 400 riders on a waitlist. Community support is vital, and individuals can help by volunteering, donating, or participating in fundraising events. The center encourages community involvement to sustain its mission and expand access to its therapeutic services.
