Equi-Kids includes the Volunteer to Ride Program, Handicapped Riding, and Scouting Programs. This program endevours to allow children who would not normally have access to horses to get to experience them in all manners of an owner.
In the Volunteer to ride program they will learn to lead, groom, ride, tack, bridle, and all other aspects of owning a horse. Equi-Kids Volunteer to Ride Program is for kids age 12-18. To join they must sign a Waiver and Volunteer to Ride Agreement.
They will work hard. They will clean stalls, paddocks, water, clean buckets, feed, paint fence, repair fence, clear trails, and any other normal operations around a barn.
We try hard to promote good attitudes in a tough teenage environment. Those Equi-kids who do not fullfill their duties will be excused from the program. There is no tolerence for anyone speaking badly about another person. There is no smoking anywhere on the property. No underage drinking. No drugs of any kind except over the counter. There is no "dating" or "hooking up" on the premsis. We are a team. Everone works hard. We strive to be support each other and promote an upbeat enviroment, social skills, and self-confidence.
For some kids this sounds like a great program, but turns out to be a lot of "not fun" work. There are no hard feelings for any Equi-Kid who decides that the program is not for them or no longer fits their schedule at any time. As long as the Equi-Kid is in good standing with their duties and attitude they will be always wecomed to visit any time.
To participate on the work schedule they must sign up for work times in two hour increments. Work times can be during any of the following times. They must sign up a week in advance for work times. They may come to the barn at other times with special arrangements, but must be accompanied by and adult unless otherwise specified.
Monday - Friday 4pm to 8pmSaturday 9am to 1pmSunday 1pm to 5pmEqui-Kids must also sign up for at least one weekly lesson at the rate of $15 per hour. Lessons keeps their riding skills improving. Fun riding can be done on Mondays, Wednesday, and Sunday's during volunteer hours listed above if horses are available. Fun Riding is $10 per hour. Volunteers may participate in fun shows, festivals, and fund raisers.
The Handicapped Riding Program allows kids with less coordination and motor skills to participate in horseback riding. We have at least one "walker" to stay beside the rider and one leader to lead the horse. Depending on the level of ability some riders may be allowed to ride alone. The intent of this program is to stimulate the mind and body and bring joy to children who are physically and mentally limited. We do not have certification at this point, but are looking into it for the future. At this point the program is strictly to improve the quality of life for kids with disabilities.
The Scouting Program is set up to allow Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts to obtain badges. Currently the HorseLover Badge and Horsemanship Badges are available.
