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Horse Therapy Offers Hope

It's a fun activity for many, but for individuals with disabilities a ride on the back of a horse can change their life.

WOWT is proud to partner with Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA); a non-profit organization that strives to improve the quality of life, physically and emotionally, for adults and children with disabilities.

 Call 402-359-8830 to set up a barn tour.

HETRA was started in Omaha in 1989 with one student and one horse. Now, there are 16 therapy horses who serve 100+ students a week with disabilities such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis, brain injuries, head or spinal cord injuries, visual or hearing impairments, autism, developmental delays, and strokes.

The concept is simple; the motion of the horse closely simulates human gait which helps improve muscle stimulation, coordination, and balance, among other things. Learning skills and mastering a task at the barn can provide an overwhelming feeling of accomplishment and achievement.

Volunteers are an essential part of the HETRA team, as are donations, which support the 16 therapy horses. Donations also make it possible for HETRA to never turn a student away, regardless of their financial situation. For details on how you can help, click the related link below.

Mark your calendar now for the 2013 Blue Jeans and Dreams event. It will be held on April 20th at Five Star Stables in Bennington.


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