The program is designed to allow children and adults with brain injuries, cerebral palsy and other disabilities to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of horseback riding. Part of the attraction of horseback riding for handicapped persons is that it puts them in control. They can control the horse by verbal commands. They don't have to have someone pushing their wheelchair which is good for their self-esteem. The Chesterfield County program is offered in the spring, summer and fall.
Participants attend one session per week for six weeks.
Volunteers perform a variety of duties, including supplying the horses, helping riders on and off horses, and walking beside the horses while the riders ride. The Colorado Springs Gazette Telegraph reported in its November 19 edition that members of the United States Air Force Academy security staff are urging the creation of a mounted patrol. Horses can get to places on the 19,000 acre academy that patrol vehicles cannot reach. Mounted patrols are effective in crowd control, such as football games and presidential visits. And, an officer on horseback is more approachable than one in a patrol car, which brings the security force into closer contact with citizens.