“This fall, Steven was privileged to receive a scholarship for horseback riding from the Ethan Wolfe Recreational Assistance Program. Steven started riding horseback at the Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program last winter. The first time he rode, he got up on the horse and cried. He wanted down immediately. Steven isn’t one to back down from a challenge, so the following week he got back up on that horse. And he was grinning from ear to ear. He has come such a long way since then! He has gained so much confidence! Last spring, Steven participated in a trail ride competition, where he took first place in his category. This year he will compete in horseback riding with the Special Olympics. I asked Steven what he liked most about horseback riding. He said that it is fun, and he likes working one-on-one with the horses. He also enjoys the shared bond he has with other participants in the Stirrups ‘n Strides program. In addition to showing off his skills on horseback, he is also helping behind the scenes. You guessed it, scooping poop and mucking out the stalls!
We are grateful to the Ethan Wolfe Recreational Assistance Program for helping alleviate some of the financial burden that comes along with weekly riding lessons. Steven looks forward to riding every week!” -Valerie M.
