“There’s something about the outside of a horse that’s good for the inside of a man.”  Winston Churchill

All children who come to Spirit of Hope receive HELP: Hope, Encouragement, Love, and Play. Additionally, horseback riding provides these benefits:

A sense of normalcy: Many children have not previously been in situations where extra-curricular activities were encouraged. Or, they’ve moved to different schools, missing the sign-up dates for team sports. Horseback riding is a sport where a child of any age is able to begin, regardless of past experience. There aren’t weekly practices or a season, so children can come for sessions as their schedule permits.

A way to learn about ourselves: The emotional and social systems of horses are very much like those of humans. However, unlike humans, a horse is always honest and frequently mirrors the human’s reaction in similar situations.

Increased self-confidence: The ability to take care of and control a horse is a great confidence builder. Positive reinforcement from volunteers and staff makes the child feel worthwhile.

A chance to escape: Exercise is a great stress reliever, along with being in the fresh air away from the worries of their lives. The ranch is a happy place where the troubles of daily life can be forgotten for a little while.

An opportunity to feel special: Not everyone has opportunity to be around horses, although almost all children are interested in them. Plus, being the center of attention during a lesson makes children feel loved.

An opportunity to develop patience: A horse does have a mind of its own, so learning to deal with frustration in a patient, calm way provides benefits outside of the ranch as well.

An opportunity to practice emotional self-discipline: An out-of-control rider means an out-of-control horse. Riders learn to control their emotions and appropriately express them.

An opportunity to learn control: Many times children are out-of-control of their own lives and the decisions that affect them. Learning to control a horse and make choices about what the horse does gives them an opportunity to think about consequences and results of their actions.