BY DICK WATSON
Gettysburg Times Staff Writer
“A lot of tears have been shed by children annually when the program closed for the winter months,” said Lead Pastor Gerry Stoltzfoos.
But that won’t happen this year.
When the cold weather arrives next fall, the Shining Stars Therapeutic Riding program will continue indoors.
With the expected approval of Straban Township supervisors, a 120 ft. by 130 ft. parking area behind the worship center will be turned into an arena and put under roof for year around use.
Budgeted at $300,000, the project has already raised $75,000 from members and friends as well as $100,000 from the Thomas L. Cline Foundation. Construction is expected to start in the spring. .
Operating funds for the program are raised through annual sponsorship of students ($190 ), horses ($1,500) and other donations.
“The purpose of our program is to provide a means of therapy using horses to help people with special needs improve physical, mental, emotional and social areas of their lives,” said Brandy Crago, program director.
The former champion rodeo rider added that, “Therapeutic riding can help to develop mobility, balance and coordination. It also improves muscle tone and strength.”
The Shining Stars Therapeutic Riding program currently has 95 students of all ages plus 150 volunteers.
Stoltzfoos pointed out that the “students” not only include children and youth who are physically or mentally challenged, but also some adults.
“Our oldest student, who is recovering from a stroke, is 80 years old,” he said. “We accept children as young as four.”�
He noted that several local school districts have recently expressed interest in the program for students who are troubled scholastically.�
“All of the horses used in the program are owned by church members or friends,” he said. “The horses are gentle, amenable animals certified for this kind of ministry and are brought in daily by trailer. We have no stables here.”
Each rider is also accompanied by walking volunteers who surround the horse and student during their 30 minute weekly sessions.
“We also spend time with parents after each session and offer them, at no charge, a two-hour Saturday night respite period for shopping, dining or attending services,” said Crago. “During that period, we provide the student with supper, games, crafts and movies. In addition, we take families on two fun field trips every summer.”
Stoltzfoos said the program has produced some good results over the years.
“I think, because of their disabilities, some of these children are not often challenged. We pray with them when they enter the program and ask them to set a goal they want to achieve. We’ve seen a 12 year old walk for the first time, also an eight year old speak.”
Crago added that riding, “helps increase their concentration and improves learning skills, which promotes self-confidence and motivation.” .
In addition to the Therapeutic Riding program, Crago also oversees a Equine Assisted Learning program for 15 students that addresses character assets and improves life skills. The program is based on Pennsylvania State Academic Standards as well as the Pennsylvania Council for Therapeutic Horsemanship..
The “strength-based” program involves small groups in mostly non-riding activities and focuses on behavioral intervention.
The Equine Facilitated Counseling program with 22 students partners with a mental health provider to develop and implement treatment plans for individuals and groups.
Also available is a Leadership & Team building program for business and other groups. It addresses communications and productivity issues with equine activities.�
For more information, Crago can be reached at 398-8327.