A Special Ride for Special Needs and More Ride Above Disability Therapeutic Riding Center expands therapy
POWAY, Calif. — Supporting children and adults with special needs, Ride Above Disability Therapeutic Riding Center (RAD) provides horse riding lessons at their Poway ranch. RAD co-founder and executive director, Allie Sarnataro, works tirelessly with her team of instructors, staff and volunteers to create a welcoming and educational environment for students and their families.
Bespoke lessons
Every student’s lesson includes a riding instructor and volunteers. RAD wants the student to learn as much as possible in the least restrictive environment. The goal for each student is to learn horse riding skills, and the team will adapt the lessons as needed. “Some people think it’s just a pony ride, but it’s much more than that. Our students are working and commanding the horse themselves based on what the instructor says,” shared Sarnataro. Students can participate in individual or small-group lessons weekly. In addition to the instructor, several volunteers walk along with the horse and student during the lesson for safety.
As students become comfortable riding during their therapy lesson, they have the exciting opportunity to compete in local and regional shows throughout the year. They can choose to compete in dressage, which showcases the rider’s ability to guide their horse to perform complex movements. Students may also choose gymkhana, which involves speed pattern racing and timed games. Shows are held on the RAD property in addition to other facilities.
New offering for veterans and active-duty military
RAD is excited to announce a new 10-week course curriculum designed especially for veterans, active-duty military and first responders. RAD recognized the need for these important members of our community to participate in horse therapy. This hands-on program helps participants deal with emotional issues they may be experiencing.
During the comprehensive course, participants learn everything about caring for a horse. From brushing to bonding with to riding the horse, these military personnel are involved in all aspects of horsemanship. “We know there are several veteran programs where they do a lot of work on the ground with the horse, but this is the first program I know of where participants are also riding,” Sarnataro said.
Sarnataro has been able to fund this one-of-a-kind program with money from grants and individual donors, so currently there is no charge, which they hope to continue. Space is available in upcoming cohorts.
Wish list
Sarnataro and the co-founders of RAD are grateful for their current three-acre property that they have leased since 2014. However, the dream of owning land and creating a permanent home for RAD is an aspiration. Having additional space would also enable them to expand their facilities and serve more riders—something they hope to add in the future.
Their wish list also includes a covered arena to help keep participants out of the sun. “It gets so hot out here and the shade would make it much easier for everyone: riders, horses and staff,” Sarnataro said.
Volunteers needed
Volunteer support is crucial to make each lesson a success. Some students have several volunteers walking alongside them as they ride their horse and the program hosts over 100 students each week. RAD also has volunteers who assist with ranch work or office work. Their greatest need is volunteers to assist in walking with the student and the horse during the lesson. RAD welcomes all people interested and provides a two-hour training and orientation every month for new volunteers.
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