My daughter Skyanna participates in a therapeutic horseback riding program located in Butler County 24 miles northeast of Rachel Carson EcoVillage. Therapeutic horseback riding is a wonderful form of therapy that uses riding to improve physical, emotional and social well-being of individuals with a variety of challenges. Participants engage in horseback riding activities under the guidance of certified instructors.
Elliot Acres Therapy Riding Center, Inc. is a riding program for individuals with physical, intellectual and emotional disabilities. This program is certified by the Pennsylvania Council on Therapeutic Horsemanship and the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH). Elliot Acres is run by Deb Campbell and depends on volunteers. (And… Deb is always looking for volunteers.)
Skyanna has been participating in therapeutic riding for periods of time since she was 3 years old. She has benefited physically, socially and emotionally. Skyanna states “I always looks forward to riding. I have a special bond with my horse Amarillo. The calm I feel when I am with my horse stays with me for days.”
– Miriam (Mimi) Baker – Founding member and future resident of RCE