CARD volunteer Ingrid Hanslep
Ingrid volunteers her time with CARD (community riding for the disabled). CARD’s therapeutic horseback riding program benefits riders who seek physical or cognitive therapies, who have a variety of disabilities, including Autism, Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis. The swinging, repetitive motion imparted to the rider through therapeutic horseback riding helps improve balance, coordination, strength and muscle tone, while gently mobilizing the joints. Therapeutic riding also improves sensory processing, focus and concentration, the ability to learn concepts, and communication skills.
The life experience of children and adults with disabilities can be one of limits. On the back of a horse, a disabled person sees the world differently. Riding gives children and adults with disabilities a chance to see expanded horizons. And, because a slight movement of the hands can turn or stop a horse, it gives them a sense of accomplishment, freedom and control – all of which have an extremely positive effect on self-esteem, self-image and self-confidence.
WATCH and learn more about CARD in our piece about Abbey Simbrow, competitive equestrian.
1.) Why did you decide to Get Involved?
Volunteering is a wonderful way to contribute to your community, and as an added bonus you get so much out of the experience yourself.
2.) Pick one word or a sentence that describes what volunteering means to you.
Giving something back.
3.) Why is your cause so important to you?
Getting involved with CARD was important to me after seeing firsthand how this magnificent therapeutic riding program helps improve the lives of people with disabilities. After my son began riding at CARD, I could see the difference it made in his life and how important it was to him, and I wanted to get involved and give something back. I could do that by volunteering my time. By volunteering at CARD, I have the opportunity to be part of the growth and development that this program offers to all of its riders. It’s incredible how much the horses teach and help both the riders with disabilities and the volunteers just by interacting with them.
Tags: CARD, cognitive therapy, disabled, horseback riding, physical therapy
