By working together with the horses, students learn
vital skills such as self-confidence, communication,
emotional control, respect and trust for others. These
skills are vital elements that must be well developed in
an individual in order for them to become a part of and
contribute meaningfully to their local community.
Many disadvantaged and disengaged youth have been
denied the role models
necessary to teach them these skills. The
program tangibly demonstrates to clients how much
more effective the use of calm assertiveness (instead of
aggressive behaviour) is in getting their horse to willingly
respond; showing them, what empathy and respect for
another living being looks like. As the horses respond
in kind and show respect and trust for their young
handlers, many former schoolyard bullies are reduced
to tears by this show of affection, perhaps for the first
time, from another living being.
Our programs and sessions have also shown to be of great value to young
people diagnosed with ASD, ADHD and anxiety. We are looking forward to also
being able to support survivors of domestic violence and PTSD through our programs in
2020.