We want to help E.A.T. continue their important work that helps Lenore and so many others continue to progress and have fun at the same time.
Equine-Assisted Therapy is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
Equine Assisted Therapy – Mission Statement
At Equine-Assisted Therapy we’re all about heart-to-hoof connections. We believe in the power of horses to open doors to personal breakthroughs for individuals facing emotional, physical, and mental challenges.
It is our mission to create life-enriching horsemanship experiences that uplift and empower our participants to enhance their well-being.
Hi! I’m Dusty.
I’m a Missouri Fox Trotter, a breed of horse developed in the Ozark Mountains, known for it’s stamina and smooth gait.
I’m also a friend and therapy horse to Lenore and many others. I’ve helped countless children with special therapy needs to build core strength, balance, muscle tone, flexibility, improved motor skills, confidence, socialization, exercise, trust, respect, problem solving and compassion.
My superpower is that I can do all of this while we have tons of FUN!
But there’s more to my story. I need a place to sleep, food to eat, snacks, vet visits, farrier services and so much more. Unfortunately, all of these things cost money. As much as I’d like to contribute, I’m a horse.
That’s why I’m asking that you consider making a donation to Equine Assisted Therapy today. Your contribution can help me continue my important work.
WHEN I FIRST STARTED AT E.A.T…
…in February 2018, it was extremely difficult for me to sit up straight on Dusty. It was difficult for me to even keep my head up. I had to have all types of adaptations done to my saddle and even a bunch of pillows secured all around me to help keep me upright. This made me sad and sometimes really angry.
Rett Syndrome has made it difficult for me to use my body how I want, so I have to rely on help from my family and caretakers for most of my daily tasks. Because I must use my wheelchair, stander, and walker throughout the day, I don’t get to work out a lot of my muscles. Equine therapy has helped me gain strength throughout my body, keeping me strong and healthy.
I’ve Met Some Special Friends
My side walkers are all volunteers. There are anywhere from 100-150 volunteers that visit E.A.T. each week to help. They help keep me safe while I ride Dusty! Volunteers also help with classes, maintain both therapy facilities, and care of our horses.
I Started Getting Stronger
As time went on, my core strength improved enough that I could start sitting on Dusty with much less assisstance. We were even able to remove some of my saddle adaptations and extra pillows.
Look At Me NOW!
I can sit up without any help. I love coming to equine therapy and I look forward to it every single week!
Some Quick Facts About E.A.T.
Unfortunately, without any good reason, and in spite of the research and evidence that equine therapy works, it is not covered under most insurance plans. Maintaining the scholorship program is important for so many families, especially those who have children with severe and costly disablilities.
The riders at E.A.T. only cover about half of what it actually costs to hold a lesson and approximately 30% of our riders will ride on our scholarship program, meaning they are not able to afford to pay for therapy.
By The Numbers
E.A.T. only has 1 full-time salaried employee, 2 full-time contracted office workers ,and 12 part-time contracted class instructors. All funds that come into the E.A.T. program go to directly to the program itself.
There are currently 20 horses at E.A.T.
E.A.T. now serves over 135 riders a week, the youngest rider is 2 and the oldest is 91.
50% of our riders see some sort of improvement in just 1 session (6 weeks) and 75% see measurable outcomes in just 2 sessions (12 weeks).
The programs include not just horse riding equine therapy, but also a veterans and first responder program, a silver saddles class for those over 55, and our equine learning for team building or those who have experienced trauma. We also collaborate with local groups such as the Alzheimer’s Association, St Louis Foster and Adoption Coalition, Cancer Cares and many local school groups.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Adam, Heather, Ivan, and Lenore are asking you to make a contribution to help Equine Assisted Therapy continue it’s very important work. We know times are tough for so many and the future might seem unpredictable. We understand if you’re unable to contribute. We do hope though, that you’ve been able to learn more about equine therapy. We can personally attest to the value and benefits of this important therapy.
Your donation will be made in Lenore’s name and is tax-deductible.
Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts!
-The Roach Family
