Tucked amid the woods on 25 acres in Egg Harbor Township, Hearts Therapeutic Riding Center (TRC) held a recent Open Barn session. As visitors learned about the therapy horses, staff members and volunteers discussed the equine-assisted activities at the non-profit, a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International accredited center. Individuals ages 4 and older with physical, emotional, cognitive and behavioral challenges benefit from gaining riding skills, which improve balance, core strength, focus, communication, social interaction, confidence and happiness.
“It’s a healing place for everyone and brings joy,” said Stefanie Green, who has served as executive director since 2020.
With a bachelor’s degree in equine science and management from Morrisville State College, she is a PATH International certified therapeutic riding instructor and equine specialist in mental health and learning. Green has taught able-bodied lessons for more than 15 years and therapeutic lessons for 13 years while mentoring instructors through certification.
Earlier this year, Green announced that Hearts TRC received a $23,839 Quality of Life grant from The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, which supports spinal cord injury research. The grant will allow the non-profit to buy two Equicizers, exercise machines simulating riding lessons, and a SureHands Lift to help non-weight-bearing riders mount a horse. In addition, the funds are earmarked for a Family/Caregiver Support Group, extending outreach in Atlantic County.
“An autistic rider, who often moves constantly, was able to remain still while sitting on one of our calm horses,” said Kathy Divito, a volunteer at Hearts TRC for more than 2 years. The 73-year-old retiree who had her own horse for 11 years and wanted to remain active, drives more than 2 hours to support those with special needs.
During the Open Barn session, she said that a blind rider in the 75-foot, round, open arena was receiving assistance from a volunteer leader, holding the reins and walking slowly on the ground in front, and two side walkers. Horses watch the former for guidance and reassurance, and the latter provide support and safety.
Green also said that horses are first observed for nearly a month to ensure that they have the right disposition and reactions when in motion. Then, a five-page training guide is followed to prepare the therapy horses for lessons with riders. They are also acclimated to handle distractions, jet and traffic noise, visitors and sudden movement at the six-barn facility.
In addition, riders are evaluated during an initial assessment to determine the optimal learning method and safety needs. Instructors, with a team of volunteers, set goals with riders to improve posture, balance, focus, concentration and other life skills. According to size and motion, the right horse is selected for individual and group lessons including those for seniors, veterans, first responders and others interested in yoga on horseback.
At the Open Barn session, the 19-year-old former race horse Jack stomped his hoof, letting Divito know that he wanted to take a walk and graze on grass. Green pointed to Bubba and Snickers, explaining that the previous show horses had experience handling crowds.
“I would love to find some younger horses and occupational therapists with the proper credentials,” said Green, who also welcomes volunteers to assist with horse care and lessons as well as facility needs including building fences, putting out hay and helping in the fields. No experience is necessary, and training is provided.
For more information about volunteering, making a donation or sponsoring Hearts TRC, see heartstrc.org.
Andrea K. Hammer has written articles for local, regional, national and international publications.
