For many children and adults with diverse abilities, their bond with the horses at the North Fraser Therapeutic Riding Association, cannot be replaced.
But in order to run the programs at the Maple Ridge centre, volunteers are critical, which is why the association is making an appeal for anyone wanting to donate some time to a worthy cause.
The association is a non-profit charitable organization providing safe and professional therapeutic equine programming to adults and children who experience physical, mental, emotional or social challenges.
There are many benefits to equine therapy that no other therapy can give, said the group online.
It addresses physical, emotional and developmental disabilities, in addition to providing therapy for autism, which is becoming ever more prevalent, the group added.
Participants can benefit from: improved balance; development of coordination, the mobilization of their trunk and pelvis, it strengthens muscles, and increases the self-confidence and the self-esteem of the riders, among other things.
Also horseback riding can give the rider the freedom to go wherever they want to go without the burden of a wheelchair or cane.
Those interested in volunteering would be asked to commit to a minimum of two hours per week, said Gay Conn, general manager of the association.
No horse experience is necessary, she added, they will train any new volunteers.
For more information please contact: manager@nftra.ca or call the office: 604-462-7786.
