This
Horses for Handicapped program is a Kiwanis Florida Division
13 supported project which was started for the purpose of promoting and
teaching recreational horseback riding to the handicapped.
Horseback riding is widely recognized as
one of the most beneficial forms of recreational therapy disabled
persons can receive. It develops self awareness, builds
self-confidence, improves concentration and discipline. Horseback
riding also improves posture, balance, and coordination as well as
increasing joint mobility and core stabilization.
The child's spirits soar as he/she react to
the new sensation of being on a height above others. They become
aware that, for the first time, they can be mobile and independent
of others and mechanical aids. The horse is their "equalizer" and
they are performing just as others do.
The
Horses for Handicapped was founded by the late Gene Harris in ~1981
as a Kiwanis project when he approached Girl Scout/4-H leader Mary Urquhart with his idea. To this day, we operate strictly on
volunteer staff made up of community members from various
organizations including Kiwanis, Girl Scouts, 4-H as well as many
others, and we depend on donations from the community. We serve over
75 riders and horse lovers each week.
We are located in west central
Pinellas County in the city of Seminole, FL.