JANUARY 2011 THE RIDER /35 Windreach Farm Hires New Leader
It is with great pleasure that the Board of Directors of WindReach Farm is pleased to announce the appointment of Karen Gordon as Executive Director.
will be a valuable contribution to the future of WindReach Farm.
Most recently with Integra Foundation Children’s Mental Health Centre in Toronto, Karen brings 20 years of senior manage- ment experience in the social service and not-for-profit sectors assisting people with disabilities. Karen pos- sesses extensive experience as a leader of large staff teams and man- ager of complex programs and facil- ities. Her education, training, and experience combined with her intense dedication to delivering effective and life changing programs
WindReach Farm is the story of a man with a vision; Founder Alexander (Sandy) J. Mitchell, born with cerebral palsy. Through Sandy’s passion and profound insight, the farm turns what most people view as ordinary activi- ties, into extraordinary experiences. Karen joins the WindReach team at an important time, since the organization is about to launch a strategic plan that will further sup- port the mandate to enrich the lives of persons of all ages with different abilities and/or special needs through experiences in farming, nature, outdoor recreation and therapeutic riding. In 2010, over 20,000 people participated in the various programs offered by the farm, including day/overnight visitors, work experi- ence and therapeutic riding. The accessible
pathways, barns and stables, combined with a ‘can do’ attitude of staff and volunteers, make an inspirational impact on all visitors and pro- gram participants. Karen’s arrival marks the departure of long time Executive Director, Penny Smith, who through her strong leader- ship and commitment contributed to the growth and success of WindReach over the past 13 years.
To learn more about WindReach Farm and our programs or to book a visit, check out
www.windreachfarm.org or call (905) 655- 5827.
At Left: WindReach Farm Founder, Sandy Mitchell, welcomes Executive Director, Karen Gordon
Tribute to Therapeutic Riding Centres
By Lynn Marshall, Para-Equestri- an Development Coach, Ottawa. January 2011.
Despite many years involved with riding internationally, I was still personally moved recently in witnessing a “first” in one of the aspects of my sport. This was at the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky where athletes with a physical disability competed for the first time as part of the regular event schedule. The games, which serve as the world championships for the eight disciplines of eques- trian sport, were for the first, time held outside of Europe. I was priv- ileged to accompany the Canadian Para-dressage team as the develop- ment coach and was inspired by these remarkable athletes. Sixteen countries were represented. It was amazing to see so many athletes of different abilities competing. Many had overcome horrific accidents and did not have the use of some of their limbs. Others were born with Cerebral Palsy, Visual Impairment and other conditions. 16-year-old Dan- ish rider Stinna Tange Kaastrup, who was born without legs, partic- ularly inspired me. I had asked her how she became involved with riding. She mentioned that a friend who rode at a Therapeutic Riding Centre one day said: “Come and see me ride”. And for her that was it. Her climb to fame began in a Therapeutic Riding Centre. She won a bronze medal for her coun- try at such a young age. In this article I wish to pay tribute to the incredible service that Therapeutic
Riding Centres offer in improving the lives of those brave souls who refuse to let their disabilities limit them.
Therapeutic Riding, also known as Equine Assisted Thera- py, uses the horse to achieve a variety of therapeutic aims, includ- ing cognitive, physical, social, educational and behavioral goals. One of the first studies on the value of riding as a therapy was reported in 1875 when a French physician used riding as a treat- ment for a variety of conditions. Therapeutic riding is prac- ticed in some form now all around the world. It benefits individuals with all types of conditions includ- ing Muscular Dystrophy, Cerebral Palsy, Visual Impairment, Autism, Multiple Sclerosis, Spina Bifida, Emotional Disabilities, Brain Injuries, Amputations, Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Dis- order and many others. It calms emotions and boosts the morale of children and adults and gives a positive self image, sense of responsibility and self-confidence – qualities that serve them well as they meet their challenges in life. There are three aspects that I would like to pay tribute to in regards Therapeutic Riding. 1. The horse: It’s been said that the relationship between human beings and horses is one of the most ancient and mutually benefi- cial relationships between man and animal to ever exist on our planet. This has certainly proven true for Therapeutic Riders. A famous say- ing among horse lovers and
attributed to Sir Winston Churchill goes, “There’s something about the outside of a horse that’s good for the inside of a man”. Most horses will typically put out spe- cial effort for disabled riders. It is exciting to see or hear of a child who couldn’t or wouldn’t talk make sounds and formulate words or speak for the very first time while riding a horse. Riders devel- op physically, mentally and emo- tionally.
The horse seems to bring out the very best in riders, lift their spirits and give them confidence. The horse seems to sense that there is a special person on them. It is also exciting to see a child who could barely hold their head up for a few moments when they began the program at a Therapeu- tic Riding Centre, after some time actually sit up and ride for an entire lesson.
2. Therapeutic Riding Centres who have the vision to see that working with the disabled helps them to obtain the maximum of their capa- bilities. What an awesome respon- sibility to have a part in giving others an elevated quality of life in a world that is becoming more and more self-centered.
3. Volunteers: All Therapeutic Riding Centres need volunteers. And volunteers should know and appreciate that they are contribut- ing to a worthwhile cause. After all, a caring community starts with people helping people. Volunteers enjoy the benefits of exercise and fresh air as well as the experience
of working with horses. And in meeting new friends and having a good time. They have the reward of being able to help those less fortunate than them- selves to gain emotional and physical independence and self-confidence. They understand that humans who have positive contact with animals tend to have higher self-esteem and are empa- thetic and nurturing. With children, horses can act as a buffer to a child’s traumatic experience – helping children express emotions – resulting in more coping strategies and reducing posttrau-
matic stress reactions.
So who benefits from Therapeutic Riding Centres? Everyone! Why not visit a center near you and be inspired by what you will see. TEAD is your local centre and they can be reached at 905-679-8323 or visit their website
www.tead.on.ca
Do call ahead of time and let them know you are coming as their lives are incredibly busy.
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