Horses & Horizons Therapeutic Learning Center Inc., a registered nonprofit, is gearing up for its spring session of therapeutic horseback riding lessons for children and adults with disabilities. The eight-week program, starting May 4, offers lessons on Monday and Wednesday evenings and relies heavily on volunteers to assist riders. Volunteers, who must be at least 14 years old, receive mandatory hands-on training on April 18, with additional sessions for those experienced with horses who wish to lead them. The center welcomes volunteers from allied health professions and also needs help with grounds maintenance, equipment cleaning, and fundraising.

Therapeutic horseback riding at H.H.T.L.C. benefits clients with various disabilities by improving physical abilities like balance and coordination, as well as enhancing self-confidence, attention span, and social skills. Program Director Elaine Smith highlights that riding is often the favorite therapy for many participants, providing significant emotional and physical benefits. Interested volunteers can contact the center’s Volunteer Coordinator, Louise Brong, for more information or visit the organization’s website.