| A NARHA Premier Accredited Center |
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| Bill Johnson, President of Equine Dreams |
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About Our Program
Equine Dreams is a not-for-profit organization which provides therapeutic horseback riding. Our program began in 1998 and is a NARHA Premier Accredited Center. We are dedicated to improving the quality of life for children and adults with special needs. All services are free to our clients.
There is a need for this type of therapy in DeKalb, Kendall, and LaSalle counties which has been confirmed by the immense interest shown in Equine Dreams. In 2009, we provided services to over 70 participants weekly. Some of the benefits of therapeutic riding are physical strength, improved postural stability, improved flexibility, improved balance, facilitation of gait, and self-confidence.
Equine Dreams is located in Newark, IL. We were recently blessed with a land donation from Mary Margaret Bieber of almost 15 acres and we are in the process of fundraising to develop that land. We began lessons there in spring of 2009.
Riding programs are available during the spring, summer, and fall on an individual basis, determined by the participant’s personal physician, therapist and riding instructor.
The people of Equine Dreams are all volunteers:
~Our president is Bill Johnson; secretary Windy Kopecky; treasurer Lenee Kissel, board member Adam Porter, board member Barb Wrobel.
~Program Director is Sarah Hunt; Development Director is Marilyn Tebrugge.
~Our CEO is Sharon Mason.
~Head Instructors are Sharon Mason and Windy Kopecky. Other certified instructors are Sarah Hunt, Julie Gavin, Barb Wrobel, Ricky Mason, and Aly Josephs.
~Volunteer side-walkers and horse leaders are a very important part of Equine Dreams and everyone's time and talents are greatly appreciated.
Because we are a free program run by volunteers, Equine Dreams depends on donations and foundation grants. The horses and equipment are in place, but the dream must have funding to cover hay, feed, veterinary care, insurance, etc.
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What is Therapeutic Riding?
Therapeutic riding uses equine assisted activities for the purpose of contributing positively to the cognitive, physical, emotional and social well being of individuals with disabilities.
Why the Horse?
This therapy is unique in that when using a horse, we are able to simulate a three dimensional movement which is the same as someone walking. When the horse walks, it rotates the riders hips and spine.
Physically, equine assisted activities can help to improve balance, posture, mobility and function. Riders learn how to balance, shift their weight, and learn basic equilibrium responses which all transfer to walking on the ground. Even if walking is not the riders objective, this rotation will help to prevent scoliosis of the spine.
Other riders have social or cognitive disabilities and they benefit in numerous ways. They learn basic skills through planned interaction and experiences with the horse. They learn not only riding skills, but also the structure, needs, personality and environment of a horse. They develop a sensitivity to the needs and learn all the activities involved in the grooming, feeding, caring for and riding these animals. Through these activities, the student develops an awareness of his own care and needs and a sensitivity to the needs and care of all things, living and inanimate, which he or she can apply to everyday learning.
Clients who may benefit can have a variety of diagnoses: examples include Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Developmental Delay, Traumatic Brain Injury, Stroke, Autism and Learning or Language Disabilities. However it is not for every client. Each potential client must be evaluated on an individual basis by specially trained health professionals.
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To obtain financial information or reports on Equine Dreams, please visit www.Guidestar.org and search for Equine Dreams. You can also donate to our organization securely through their site.
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