Central Kentucky Riding for Hope

 

 

 

This week we're highlighting a very prominent organization in the therapeutic riding industry - Central Kentucky Riding for Hope (CKRH), a PATH International Premiere Accredited Center. We recently received a beautiful testimonial from CKRH about their Equicizer that we're excited to share with you all, but FIRST, some cool history and facts about the incredible program that Central Kentucky Riding for Hope has evolved into:

Founded in 1981 and based out of the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, CKRH has been serving the community in a multitude of ways for over 35 years. Their 4.1 million dollar facility which includes a large 50,000 square foot center that features everything from a large arena, stalls and other barn amenities to offices and meeting spaces, also contains an outdoor arena and plenty of paddock space for the approximately 30 horses that contribute to their various programs.

The CKRH employs a full and part time staff as well as multiple licensed therapists and they have over 170 volunteers each week that help keep everything running smoothly. The services the CKRH offers include therapeutic riding, Hippotherapy, Equine Facilitated Mental Health, Equine Facilitated Learning and Therapeutic Horsemanship. These may include mounted and non-mounted equine activities overseen by certified professionals and are open to a wide range of individuals from those with physical and mental disabilities to military members and veterans as well as local public and private schools.


One of our personal favorite things about the CKRH is their use of their Equicizer - "HOPE"! Purchased in 2007, "Hope" helps further the CKRH's mission and dedication "to enriching the community by improving the quality of life and the health of children and adults with special physical, cognitive, emotional and social needs through therapeutic activities with the horse" on a daily basis.



In the words of CKRH's Equine Manager/Trainer/Instructor, Lisa Swanson:

"We love our Equicizer, fondly named "HOPE" for many reasons. HOPE doesn't shed, always has a pleasant attitude, & never needs to have her saddle refitted! :)

In all seriousness, we use HOPE all the time at our Center. Some of our uses are new rider evaluations, engaging fearful participants, building rider core strength & stamina, staff /volunteer training's, and more! HOPE is part of our herd and a valuable asset as we serve individuals in the community with disabilities. HOPE helps our participants see themselves as ABLE, rather than DIS-ABLED!!

Thank you for such an awesome product!!"

And we would like to thank the CKRH for their continuing efforts on behalf of all of those that they service.

Please check out Central Kentucky Riding for Hope's website and facebook page for more information. 

by Kayla Jarvinen

 

www.equicizer.com