Testimonials
My name is Makrina, I am a sister, a daughter, a friend, a downhill skier, a swimmer, a water skier, a psychologist, a person with a physical disability and a participant of Opening Gaits. There are so many parts that make up each of us, some parts that are consistent, and some that can change. Disability is the largest minority in the world and one that some are born into, some obtain injury and remain in the group, while others are in it for a brief period of time.
The program Opening Gaits runs is diverse with respect to the reasons why individuals attend this programming and each of these reasons are supported. I have come back after some time off from riding as I personally have recognized the benefits physically with the tightness that exists in my legs due to Cerebral Palsy.
There are so many people that are needed to make this possible, the volunteers, the organizers, the instructors, and the horses. This is not a task that would be easy for anyone to take on, on their own, but one that is possible when a community helps support the financial cost of such a unique program.
Makrina
Opening Gaits Participant
Programs like Opening Gaits are so invaluable to people with extra challenges in life. My son Colin is 6 years old and has multiple diagnosis and is the only one with some of his conditions. We have had 4 years of specialized services with all therapies like PT, OT, OT feeding, behavior, physic. Equestrian therapy is a perfect add on for people just like Colin. Sitting on his horse helps with balance, coordination, and strength to make sure Colin is strong enough to not need his wheelchair more.
Being with other children is amazing. Socialization with children with complex needs like Colin so he feels like he belongs and can relate to his peers, the interaction with the horses shows him how to show empathy and care for other living creatures. And the helping with the tack and brushing helps him not only with fine motor but also helps to calm Colin.
Colin also has Autism and ADHD and after sessions he is more focused and calm. And talking to his horse helps with speech and language.
There are so many places in this world that Colin feels out of place in and less than his peers of his age and this is not one of them by a long shot. He comes thrilled and happy and proud of himself for what he can accomplish at Opening Gaits.
This program also allows me as mom to get to know others that understand and relate to parenting a child like Colin.
Trust me when I say having a child with invisible conditions is not an easy road and simple things like grocery shopping can be super hard, challenging and defeating at times. Especially with others judging you and your child because his disorders are hidden.
Being with other children is amazing. Socialization with children with complex needs like Colin so he feels like he belongs and can relate to his peers, the interaction with the horses shows him how to show empathy and care for other living creatures. And the helping with the tack and brushing helps him not only with fine motor but also helps to calm Colin.
Colin also has Autism and ADHD and after sessions he is more focused and calm. And talking to his horse helps with speech and language.
There are so many places in this world that Colin feels out of place in and less than his peers of his age and this is not one of them by a long shot. He comes thrilled and happy and proud of himself for what he can accomplish at Opening Gaits.
This program also allows me as mom to get to know others that understand and relate to parenting a child like Colin.
Trust me when I say having a child with invisible conditions is not an easy road and simple things like grocery shopping can be super hard, challenging and defeating at times. Especially with others judging you and your child because his disorders are hidden.
Krista Brown
Colin's Mom
My Family have been involved with Opening Gaits for about two years.
We are volunteers and Clients (sons are in program). We also have a horse that is in the program (Sifa).
The independence the twins have gained learning from the instructors and volunteers is valuable. They are more confident and willing to try new things.
My daughter and I are volunteers and it is a wonderful opportunity for spending special time together. The people involved with this organization are amazing and kind.
Welcoming to everyone.
We are volunteers and Clients (sons are in program). We also have a horse that is in the program (Sifa).
The independence the twins have gained learning from the instructors and volunteers is valuable. They are more confident and willing to try new things.
My daughter and I are volunteers and it is a wonderful opportunity for spending special time together. The people involved with this organization are amazing and kind.
Welcoming to everyone.
Kim A & Charlie H
My daughter is new to the program, and it is already the main topic of conversation in our household. She is so excited to be able to ride with Opening Gaits and is becoming more social with her interactions with others. Being around the horses is calming and good for the soul. We are so grateful for the opportunity. Thank you to all that make the program possible.
Anon
I'm enjoying the lessons riding Nigel at Opening Gaits and the workers & the people who volunteer on their free time with helping the riders who need help with riding horses.
Neil W
Client
My experience with Opening Gaits is two-fold.
Firstly: I started volunteering with OG over two years ago. I have always liked to contribute to those in need in my community. Plus, joining this project seems like the right thing to do.
Secondly: After seeing the joy that is generated in the riders, we all can see the advantages these classes offer. We were fortunate in that we were able to get our son involved in the program. He is 46 years old with special needs. He absolutely loves his time in the arena. Our only problem is “wiping the grin off his face” at the end of his ride. 😊
Our thanks go out to all the OG crew, board, instructors & volunteers who genuinely care for those who are lucky enough to have the opportunity to participate. Thank you!
Firstly: I started volunteering with OG over two years ago. I have always liked to contribute to those in need in my community. Plus, joining this project seems like the right thing to do.
Secondly: After seeing the joy that is generated in the riders, we all can see the advantages these classes offer. We were fortunate in that we were able to get our son involved in the program. He is 46 years old with special needs. He absolutely loves his time in the arena. Our only problem is “wiping the grin off his face” at the end of his ride. 😊
Our thanks go out to all the OG crew, board, instructors & volunteers who genuinely care for those who are lucky enough to have the opportunity to participate. Thank you!
Ron G
We have only just started at Opening Gaits, my sister has downs syndrome and is loving her time riding the horse and the instructors and helpers are very patient and friendly. I also like that they show her how to brush, talk to and respect the horses themselves. It is an excellent place and we love the staff.
Darlene K
I recently began volunteering with Opening Gaits, in roles outside and inside the arena. In doing so, I have met an amazing group of people who are dedicated and passionate in their love of horses and enabling riders to enjoy the freedom that is riding a horse. It is a genuine and rewarding experience to see riders develop in strength, skill and independence. To hear the confidence, joy and laughter in their voices as they deliver verbal commands to the horse and interact with their leader, side walker and instructor/assistant. This truly is an inspiring program.
Anon