allow the student to self-discover and improve their processes to achieve the best possible outcome .
LTR ’ s Horse Powered Reading ® program integrates socialemotional learning with academics , thus allowing students to see and experience reading with their entire mind , body and emotions by creating metaphors for the skills involved in reading .
Students interact with horses from the ground , while using toys and props to identify obstacles and learn five critical reading skills — phonemic awareness , decoding , vocabulary , fluency , and comprehension . No prior horse experience is necessary . One student Marleau tells it like this : “ Mom , did you know that Fanci is just as stubborn about reading as me ! Also , I taught Fanci how to pair words !”
Loudoun Therapeutic Riding has been creating these special memories for decades . I hear new and heartfelt stories every time I ’ m around the staff , volunteers , and students .
The story of Rosie Howard , and the love of the entire Howard Family got me involved . And yes , I paid a ridiculous price for that bottle of champagne . I popped the cork at our table and celebrated the night trying to bid up all the auction items my friends were trying to buy . It was worth every penny .
I ’ ve since gone on to have the honor to be on LTR ’ s Board of Directors . Reggie , after retiring from a 28-year career as a Naval Officer , has been the President of the Board during that time . I serve alongside many dedicated friends and supporters . I serve for
the dedicated staff , volunteers , students and horses .
In 2021 , LTR entered a new era . The barn that brings so much joy became the organization ’ s “ forever home ” when we purchased an amazing farm last summer , a permanent home for another 50 years . I invite you to come visit . See the horses and feel the love , trust , and respect . It soaks in your bones . I think you just might be inspired to get involved .
Chris Walton is on the Board of Directors for Loudoun Therapeutic Riding . A graduate of the U . S . Naval Academy Class of 1989 , he is a former Navy pilot and founder of technology company Bonfire Technologies LLC . He lives near Hamilton with his wife Amy and is the father of Loudoun residents , Pete and Sam Walton .
saveruralloudounnow . org • saveruralloudoun @ gmail . com • PO BOX 2546 Purcellville , va 20134