In July, I was privileged to visit Hope Haven Horse Farm. Our COO, Denny Smith, introduced me to the amazing work this not-for-profit does and invited me to ride-along. I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, it was more than I could have expected. Much more. The visit was enlightening, rewarding, and emotional. It moved me. I had tears in my eyes more than once.
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What is Hope Haven?

Hope Haven is a working horse farm using equestrian training to improve the physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities of special needs patients and at risk children. As Christy shared with me, “It provides clients the opportunities for increased fitness, self-confidence and a sense of independence. Benefits include flexibility, balance, muscle strength, increased fitness, self-confidence, sense of independence, endurance, stamina.”  There’s another key to the farms success. Learning to guide and control a horse affords clients a sense of normalcy they may be missing in their lives.
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How does Therapeutic Training Impact Clients?

There aren’t many opportunities for the learning disabled to be taught a specialized skill such as horseback riding. Learning how to direct this animal inspires confidence, improves motor skills, and teaches the importance of teamwork. The physical demands of riding stimulate emotional health, reduce tension, and foster positive approaches to problem solving.

How can you help?

The farm relies on individual and corporate contributions. Because, funds are continuously needed for upkeep, maintenance, and equipment replacement. Hope Haven and the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology have pioneered therapeutic methodologies that have advanced the science, but there’s a price tag. That’s where you come in. TKO Graphix donated $500. We challenge corporations to match or beat our contribution and individuals to do what you can to make a difference in someone’s life. Here are a few Ways to Give to Hope Haven Horse Farm. Your contribution will help deserving clients who may never have a chance to participate without your donation. Thank you.