Sarah participated in therapeutic riding lessons at Reins of Life for years. She loved being at the barn and around the horses, but lessons on horseback were a struggle because of her fear of heights. She required additional support and encouragement to get through each lesson.
Reins of Life improves the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities through equine-assisted therapy. Since 1978, the organization has provided a safe and enriching environment for individuals with a wide variety of diagnoses to participate in fun, educational, and therapeutic programs.
“During lessons, participants work with their equine partners, building horsemanship and practical skills for living and leading healthy lives,” said Dorota Janik, Executive Director. “Carriage driving gives our students a riding alternative, which opens up the world of horses to those who may be unable to ride.”
Sarah became the first to participate in the therapeutic carriage driving program when Reins of Life introduced it after years of preparation and training. Her experience transformed when she transitioned to carriage driving, where she was much more at ease. While instructors had previously negotiated with her to ride a little further, the opposite became true when Sarah drove a carriage, asking for more time at the end of the lessons.
Your philanthropy has helped Reins of Life expand and strengthen its therapeutic carriage driving program by supporting the purchase of a four-wheeled carriage. Thank you for being a part of this life-changing work.
Photo: Dorota Janik, Reins of Life Executive Director
