(Three Oaks, MI) - Money is being raised to give people, especially those with disabilities, a high quality, personal experience with horses at no cost.
Spring Creek Equestrian Center at 16771 Pardee Road outside Three Oaks held a fund raiser Sunday at Williams Orchard near Heston. People were offered a chance to have their pictures taken with S’more, an 18-year old horse at the 20 acre farm, for $5 apiece. Merchandise was also sold to help provide scholarships for the lessons.
The scholarships are provided by the Spring Creek Horses Help Foundation to adults and children unable to afford the cost of the four week program. The foundation strives to teach team building skills and provide other positive life lessons through time spent at the barn and with the animals.
The primary focus is helping people who may suffer from physical or emotional disabilities such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, difficulties in school, social issues or family struggles.
Vonnie Hein, who works at the horse farm, said being around the horses has made a world of difference in her autistic grandson since he began coming out for about the past year. “He’s more responsible, outgoing. He just loves the horses and they’re good for him,” she said.
Alison Grosse, the long-time owner of the farm containing 33 horses, began offering four 90 minute courses in February. There hasn’t been another course because of COVID-19 but applications are being accepted for the second round of classes at a still undetermined time in the coming weeks.
Michelle Reynolds, another worker at the farm, said participants are given lessons on everything from riding, feeding and grooming horses. The first class began with four children but up to eight people per session is the goal. “We’re really excited. Hopefully, we can keep going. The kids really enjoy it,” she said.
For more information, contact the foundation at (269) 756-3894 or log in at springcreekhorseshelp.org or e-mail at info@springcreekhorseshelp.org.
