ACTHA Charity
of the Month
ACTHA Monthly | June 2015 | 36
As co-founders of Healing Touch Therapeutic Riding Center in St. Cloud, Florida, Chris and Mary have worked very hard to ensure that the center is safe and that students and their families always receive a warm and loving welcome. As a member center of PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship), Healing Touch follows the guidelines established by PATH. For Healing Touch, following these established guidelines not only allows them to ensure the safety of their students and horses, but aids them in proper instruction as students’ progress towards their set goals. Healing Touch currently has two registered PATH instructors and two of their volunteers are scheduled to begin the instructor’s course shortly.
Healing Touch currently has 18 active students with various disabilities. Student’s challenges include Autism, Spina Bifida, Cerebral Palsy, and Downs Syndrome. It has long been recognized by many medical organizations, including the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), that horseback riding is one of the most beneficial and progressive forms of therapy for those with disabilities. From the beginning, riders learn balance, coordination and self-assurance, while receiving much needed therapeutic muscle and sensory stimulation. The unique physical, psychological and social benefits derived from equine related therapy programs are second to none. Families and students will attest to the fact that for them therapeutic riding offers endless possibilities.
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one of the most beneficial and progressive forms of therapy for those with disabilities. From the beginning, riders learn balance, coordination and self-assurance, while receiving much needed therapeutic muscle and sensory stimulation. The unique physical, psychological and social benefits derived from equine related therapy programs are second to none. Families and students will attest to the fact that for them therapeutic riding offers endless possibilities.
The goal and vision of Healing Touch lies within their mission to assist every child and adult they can to benefit from this remarkable therapy, in a professional and safe equine environment. The students come to Healing Touch from referrals, through their attendance at community events and also through the Medicaid Staywell program. Medicaid now offers ten (10) sessions per year for qualified Staywell participants. Healing Touch also has a Sponsor-a-Rider Program which provides a scholarship for needy students to cover lesson costs. It is a beautiful way to give back.