b'THERAPEUTIC PROGRAMSC O M M O N LY 1 Therapeutic Ridingmay include grooming, saddlingA S K E D Q U E S T I O Nand riding skills or may be passive in nature. For some riders, exercises and the movement of the horse canWhat About relax muscles, increase range of motion and improvethe Horses?balance. Psychological and developmental benefits can include increased independence, motivation, self- STAR includes horses of various breeds, sizes, control, vocabulary and sequential learning. gaits, and abilities for its therapeutic experiences. The horses, which are leased or donated, have 2 Developmental Riders are unable to do groundvaried backgrounds, such as hunter/jumper, dressage, pleasure riding, trail riding, Western and work due to physical limitations, but ride for 20-30English. A $1,800 donation as a horse sponsor minutes as they are able. Activities are geared towardsis an excellent way to contribute to STAR and stretching, reaching and positive engagement.help cover costs for grain, farrier and veterinary expenses, supplements, and other 3 Heroes and Horses is designed for veterans withnecessary items.disabilities such as PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, amputation, sensory loss and other conditions. For more information, visit rideatstar.org.Partnering with horses can improve balance and coordination, strengthen muscle tone, provide stress relief and increase confidence. It also offers opportunities for networking and relationship-building.4 Minis in Motion includes activities where miniature horses help promote personal development and emotional well-being for residents of memory care units and assisted living facilities. They are also great for school groups, camps and parades.Heroes5 Reflections, a supplemental program to Minis in& HorsesMotion, involves early- and middle-stage Alzheimers patients and their caregivers in bi-monthly interactions at STAR.6 Strides includes several programs teaching life and I have never seen another nonprofit that relationship skills for at-risk youth, women in crisis, andhelps so many different adults in recovery. types of people, kids with STAR also offers field trips for schools, homedisabilities, adults with school and youth groups, and provides contracteddementia, at-risk youth, services with occupational therapists and socialvets with PTSD. workers for family or individual therapy.15 Chase Kerby15'