In 1993 Equi-Ed Therapeutic Riding program was founded to serve the California counties of So
My barn in Calistoga before the Tubb's fire. One of Equi-Ed's accomplished riders with disabilities riding my Paso Fino mare, Pistolera. Equi-Ed and the Competitive Ridernoma and Napa. Since that time it has offered a therapeutic modality whose benefits are uniquely provided by a horse. By being on top of a horse the rider recieves the sensory input of the three dimensional qualities of the natural human gait; for individuals with physical limitations this is an experience that cannot be obtained or replicated in a clinic setting. To be free from the hinderances of a wheelchair, crutches, walker, learning disability, visual impairment or other special need, the rider experiences an unparalleled sense of freedom. To take up the reins, guiding and controlling the horses movement, provides a sense of empowerment many individuals with disabilities feel has been taken from them. The connection and communication that occurs between the rider and their mount doesn't need language or arms or legs for that matter! These specially selected horses give their riders the opporuntity to participate in a mainstream sport or leisure activity where they experience a sense of inclusion, acceptance and competance that may not happen anywhere else in their lives.
The Hoofbeats in the Vineyard fundraiser will help Equi-Ed provide support to students with scholarship funds and care of the horses through its Program Horse Retirement and Special Care horse fund.
Thank you for your donation in support of Equi-Ed, whose impact on the lives of the riders with disabilities is immeasurable, and for the horses who make it all possible!
