Volunteer to help equestrian therapists
The day was filled with something to eat, drink and a lot of fun.
Interaction with a therapy horse allows riders to discover the natural consequences of their actions in a non-judgemental and safe environment.
The Gauteng Branch of Sarda (South African Riding for the Disabled Association) recently held a fundraiser event for its non-profit organisation.
The community had the opportunity to experience the work they do by attending lessons and meeting some of the children. There was also something to eat and drink, and a lot of fun.
Sarda Gauteng is still being run by volunteers and has always relied solely on donations to be able to provide free therapeutic riding opportunities for children who would not otherwise receive any kind of therapy. The special event was held at The EARTH centre (Equine Assisted Riding, Therapy and Healing) in Ruimsig on 14 February.
The organisation helps children who suffer from mental disabilities, autism and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), to name a few. There are weekly Hippo therapy sessions, which more than 10 schools from Gauteng and over a 100 children attend.
According to volunteer Lindal Coesse, a horse presents extra dimensions because it is a highly sensitive, emotional being with enormous strength and athletic ability. It also provides warmth for the children. The horse responds to the rider with consistent clarity and honesty. As the riders are allowed to experiment within these natural boundaries, they develop decision-making skills, which subsequently greatly empower them in all aspects of his life.
“Riding gives these children a sense of self-confidence and it makes a difference to their well-being,” said volunteer Sandy Naudé.
Potential donors attended the event to find out how they could get involved, and the parents of some of the disabled children came to tell their story.
“Both my children are special-needs children. The organisation helped them to become more sociable and discover their identity. My children now feel they have a purpose in life,” said Petra Lewis.
The organisation plans to expand and help as many children as possible, but without the community they are not able to do so. If you would like to get involved, contact Nicole Christie at info@earthcentre.org.za.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at krugersdorpnews@caxton.co.za or phone us on 011 955 1130.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister websites:
Randfontein Herald, Roodepoort Record, Get It Joburg West Magazine
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!
