Volunteers Needed to Assist Developmentally Disabled Horse Riders

An adaptive horseback riding program that is both enjoyable and beneficial for developmentally disabled children and adults is scheduled to begin next week at Lord Stirling Stable in Basking Ridge, and the county still is looking for some volunteers to assist the riders.

The Somerset County Park Commission Therapeutic Recreation Department and Lord Stirling Stable needs about a half-dozen additional volunteers to assist with the T.R.A.I.L.S (Therapeutic Recreation Adapted Instruction at Lord Stirling) program on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings beginning April 2 and 3, said Dina Trunzo, certified therapeutic recreation specialist and manager of therapeutic recreation for the Somerset County Park Commission.

The "adapted horse riding" classes are fully booked for this session with 20 riders who have been signed up by family members or through organizations, Trunzo said on Monday.

"The role of the volunteer can either be a ‘side walker’ providing support, balance, and reinforcement of instruction or a ‘lead walker," Trunzo said.

The horseback riding lessons have physical, cognitive and emotional therapeutic value for the disabled riders, she said.

"It raises their self-esteem," Trunzo said on Monday. "For some, it can improve their communication skills." That can translate into a special needs student raising their hand more often in school to participate, she noted.

Volunteers should have a desire to help individuals enjoy a recreational activity that they otherwise would have no opportunity to experience, according to information from the county. Participating volunteers will be required to attend a short training session prior to the start of classes.

Two class times each evening, volunteers generally must be 18 or older

Volunteers need not have equestrian experience but must be age 18 or older. However, 17-year-olds will be considered if they have previous experience with horses. Two class options are available each Tuesday and Wednesday between 6:15 to 7:30 p.m.; and from 7:15 to 8:30 p.m.

“The volunteer is an active contributor to the learning and enjoyment of the student. The success of the program is due in large part to the volunteers, working with trained staff, to support each of the students.”

The T.R.A.I.L.S. program consists of ten weekly riding lessons. Volunteers may choose either or both sessions.
 
T.R.A.I.L.S. provides an opportunity for children and adults with developmental disabilities to learn the basics of horseback riding at a level adapted to their individual needs. Activities take place at Lord Stirling Stable, 256 S. Maple Avenue, south of downtown Basking Ridge.

Volunteers interested in participating may call the Therapeutic Recreation Department at 908-526-5650 or NJ Relay at 711 for individuals with a hearing or speech impairment. Those who may wish to sign up a rider in the future should also call that number, Trunzo said.

Volunteer information is also available be visiting the Somerset County parks website.