Therapeutic horseback riding program

anonymous

GallopNYC, a therapeutic horseback riding program will be starting a new program at Kensington Stables located at 51 Caton Place, Brooklyn, New York. We are seeking riders who we believe will benefit from this type of therapy. Also volunteers who would like to give their time to helping disabled children and adults in a horse-centered environment.

Below is a brief overview of our program.

The goal of Gallop’s program is to provide horse-centered therapies to a diverse group of adults and children facing physical, cognitive, psychological, and educational challenges. Examples of riders Gallop will assist include individuals with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, traumatic head injury, stroke, and other neurological disabilities. Also, individuals who have suffered emotional trauma, such as first responders (NYPD, NYFD, EMS), war veterans and their families. These individuals can benefit from the horse’s rhythmic gait by developing muscle tone, improving balance and reducing spasticity. The bond the riders’ form with their horses has been shown to enhance riders’ self-esteem and confidence. Clients are generally referred from local rehabilitation facilities, residential facilities, hospitals, and support organizations.

Staffed by a riding instructor certified by NARHA (North American Riding for the Handicapped Association) and a licensed physical therapist, as well as a dedicated and experienced group of volunteers, the program offers a safe and supportive environment in which participants can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of good horsemanship while bonding with the horse.

Gallop will initially operate its program on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with each of the three sessions providing 45 minutes of lesson time, but we hope to expand rapidly by adding more sessions.

For more information, please contact Gallop at [email protected] or call 646-413-0469.