The northeast’s newest therapeutic riding center, the Southern Vermont Therapeutic Riding Center (SVTRC), opened with a slate of equine-based therapeutic programs for children and adults on February 8 at Winchester Stables in Newfane, Vermont.

Under the direction of Lorna Young, a North American Riding for the Handicapped Association Certified Advanced Therapeutic Riding Instructor, SVTRC offers three distinct six-week programs: Therapeutic Riding, which develops riding skills and provides exercise to individuals with physical, cognitive and emotional needs; Horsemanship, which teaches basic horse care, safety and behavior, and Vocational Ed, which develops career skills in horsemanship, horse care and behavior. Depending upon the individual’s needs, participants may schedule group or private sessions.

While the benefits of Therapeutic Riding have been medically documented, statistics alone cannot fully describe its true value. The look of confidence, pride and achievement on a rider’s face when he or she has successfully completed a task is the most profound measure of its value. Therapeutic Riding works, and its benefits are ongoing. Individuals with the following disabilities commonly participate and benefit from equine facilitated therapy and activities: Muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, visual impairment, Down Syndrome, mental retardation, autism, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, emotional disabilities, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder, deafness, cardiovascular accident/stroke.

Energetic people 14 years of age and older are encouraged to volunteer their time at the center’s facilities at Winchester Stables. Volunteers need not have horse experience, only horse sense and a strong desire to work with and around horses and people with physical, cognitive and emotional needs. To volunteer, call 802-365-9434.

Winchester Stables is located on River Road in Newfane, Vermont. For fees and to learn more about the program, Winchester Stables, and therapeutic riding in general, visit online at www.winchesterstables.com.