The Equestrian Therapy Program celebrates 40 years with new programs.
The Equestrian Therapy Program was founded in 1982 by Joe and Ann Fassett and Bev Thompson to provide therapeutic horseback riding to improve the student’s cognitive, emotional, and physical wellbeing. ETP Executive Director Michele Andrews-Sabol explained that horseback riding is great exercise; it strengthens muscles, improves balance, coordination and blood circulation and increases range of motion. Riding has proven effective as recreational therapy in the treatment of various disabilities including: cerebral palsy, autism, Down Syndrome, muscular dystrophy and more. She says riding is particularly beneficial for students with impaired motor function. The movement of the horse both relaxes and stimulates unused muscles, building muscle tone and improving coordination and balance. ETP has launched new equine assisted learning programs: Team Building and Leadership Skills, Horse Powered Reading, Horse Powered Math and Stable Moments, all of which use horses to help students learn and gain confidence.
Also Monday, we presented our quarterly scholarship to eleven non-traditional students who are attending institutes of higher learning in Allen County. Currently, the scholarship program has awarded scholarships totaling $890,250. Congratulations to the winners!
