Equistrides Therapeutic Riding Center

Equistrides Therapeutic Riding Center is gearing up for its Fall Riding Program which begins on Tuesday, September 10. Equistrides, founded in spring of 2000, is dedicated to providing the benefits of therapeutic horseback riding to individuals with special physical, emotional and cognitive needs in a safe and enjoyable environment. Currently, the riding program serves over 100 individuals ages 4 years and older and of varying special needs.

The facility, located at 160 Granville Rd. in North Granby, operates year-round, is wheelchair accessible, and has a mounting area that includes an automated lift, where a rider can easily be assisted onto a horse.

There are four riding programs offered each year—Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall—with each program running eight to ten consecutive weeks. Individuals typically ride once a week for approximately 45 minutes per session. Activities include learning riding skills, grooming and horse care, as well as trail walks.

Equistrides is a volunteer-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and a North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) Premier Accredited Center. NARHA is a national nonprofit organization which seeks to promote quality therapeutic riding centers and establish safety standards and guidelines for programs.

Volunteers are needed! Equistrides relies on volunteers to assist with all aspects of the program including leaders and sidewalkers for riders, stable assistants for daily care of the horses and facility upkeep, office support, special events, and fundraisers. The recommended minimum age for volunteers is 14 years. Experience with horses is not required; hands-on training is provided.

New volunteer orientation and training sessions are held on a regular basis. For more info on volunteering or participating in the program, call Equistrides at 860-844-0342, or visit <www.equistrides.org>.