Blazing Saddles 2007 Summer Riding Programs Are Now Underway

The 2007 summer riding season has begun for Blazing Saddles, a volunteer based equine assisted therapeutic riding organization. Located at the Blowing Rock Equestrian Preserve, at the L.M. Tate Showgrounds, Blazing Saddles currently serves over 20 children and adults with special needs.
Volunteer training for new volunteers will be held on Thursday, May 24th from 5-7pm at BREP. All interested in participating are welcome to attend.
A member of the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA), the mission of Blazing Saddles is to provide a physically and emotionally beneficial equine experience for all riders and volunteers.
Equine Therapy is a gentle way to provide therapy, and helps to build confidence and self-esteem. Assisted by trained volunteers, riders are safely exposed to all aspects of riding including basic horse care, grooming, tack and actual riding techniques.
Pam Dillard’s daughter, Hannah, is in her fifth year of participating in the program. “She has gained greatly in the areas of her posture, balance, muscle tone, overall movement and focus ability, and in building her social skills used to communicate with the instructor and volunteers, increasing her self-esteem. This program has been such a blessing for Hannah and us as a family” said Dillard.
Blazing Saddles is a non-profit (501c-3) organization, providing a unique and enjoyable therapeutic equestrian experience for children and adults with special needs. They are funded by charitable donations and are an agency of the High Country United Way.
Volunteers, riders and donations are welcomed. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, know of someone who could benefit from equine therapy, or would like to make a donation call 828-295-3335.