A Chatham-based therapeutic riding program is the beneficiary of a significant Ontario Trillium Foundation grant.
Operating out of TJ Stables, Acceptional Riders, which offers therapy riding for children and adults with various needs, has announced a new equine-assisted learning and life skills program.
“This new non-riding program is geared for success,” said Terry Jenkins, founder and administrator of Acceptional Riders for more than 30 years, in a release. “There are no wrong answers in the arena, only safe and unsafe practices. We allow the participants to interpret the instructions for the obstacles and stretch their creativity and thinking outside the box to complete the challenges.
“The horse encourages making connections and life skills in the arena, and the participants transfer these interactions and problem-solving skills to real-life experiences.”
Equine-assisted learning involves the horse essentially becoming the teacher. It is an alternative therapy program, helping participants of all ages develop healthy relationships, work ethic, trust of self and others, self-esteem, both verbal and non-verbal communication skills, and expanded comfort zones.
The program also creates an opportunity to learn about responsibility, empathy, patience, impulse control and good decision-making skills, along with the ability to take smart risks and appreciate diversity.
“Thanks to a $73,200 grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation Resilient Communities Fund, it was possible to train our facilitators, engage consultants and create an EAL therapy room, as well as equipping the program with obstacles,” said Alison VanGorkum, chairperson for the Acceptional Riders board of directors, in the release.
Seven one-hour sessions help guide participants along their own personal journey through the program.
The pandemic shut down the Acceptional Riders program for the past two years. However, it has since restarted and is now accepting new clients for the riding and non-riding programs.
“COVID has shone a light on many stressors that have developed due to isolation and anxiety,” Jenkins added. “We are able to expand our reach and services to our community and get the training we need and are grateful for this generous grant.
“Not only do we provide this wonderful program for mainstream participants, we have developed an Indigenous component to the program, created by an Indigenous program director and knowledge keeper. It’s a unique, horse-led Indigenous program utilizing the Seven Grandfather Teachings and life skills.”
Anyone interested in making a donation, sponsoring a participant or enrolling in any of the above programs, can contact TJ Stables at 519-354-7517 or by emailing [email protected]