Established in 1986, Project Astride is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides therapeutic horseback riding sessions for people with developmental, physical or sensory challenges. Riders benefit socially, emotionally and physically because of their experiences with the program.
Volunteers contribute by providing direct support to participants, working with the horses during and outside of riding sessions, performing barn chores, taking on the role as instructors during riding sessions, welcoming participants and their families, setting up and putting away equipment for riding sessions, updating website information, and serving as board members. Persons younger than 16 years of age can help as interested and able in capacities that don?Äôt involve direct contact with participants and horses.
The setting one mile east of St. Stephen is a beautiful, peaceful rural property that includes a barn, indoor arena, outdoor arena and riding trails. Weekly riding sessions are offered in the spring, summer and fall; chores are done year round. Volunteers determine their level of involvement by choosing to be active during some or all of the seasons. Get your questions answered at one of two ?Äúmeet and greet?Äù opportunities coming up soon; please contact the volunteer coordinator, Marti, at: martiastride@yahoo.com. More information is also available at: www.astride.org/.