For three years Cerebral Palsy of Massachusetts has been providing therapeutic horseback riding to students at the Josiah Quincy School. Six elementary level students who are physically challenged are taken to the Bridge Center in Bridgewater, MA and get a chance to ride a horse with assistance. This is a 12-week program that serves up to 24 students.
"The Bridge Center is a fully accessible 20+ acre campus that offers year-round, summer camp, and equine assisted programs designed for children, teens and adults with special needs," says Lauren Havens, Program Director for Therapeutic Recreation at Cerebral Palsy of Massachusetts. The City of Boston provides the buses and the Cerebral Palsy Foundation supports the program at the Bridge Center.
“This is a great opportunity that helps students increase self-confidence and interest in learning,” adds Mr. Sacco, a teacher volunteer. “ This is a wonderful program and a fantastic opportunity for our amazing children! ”
Here are some quotes from students who participate in the program:
Hector: "I love horseback ridding. I get to be a cowboy."
Elvis: "Horseback riding is fun and it is the first time I have been on a farm."
Pedro: "Horseback riding is really good exercise. I usually sleep all the way home."
Casady: "I go really fast on my horse."
Ajamu: " I talk to my horse, Roxy, every week. I miss her when I can't come"
To learn more about this program visit: www.masscp.org
