The HOPE on Horseback program began as an equine facilitated outreach project for women in our community who had been diagnosed with breast cancer. As we have piloted this program, we found that the restorative, empowering changes it produced could be of benefit to all women and young girls, especially those rebuilding their lives after domestic abuse, PTSD, assault, addictions and other traumatic experiences.
2 million injuries and 1,300 deaths are caused each year as a result of domestic violence. In 2013, an estimated 232,340 new cases of invasive breast cancer were expected to be diagnosed among US women. Approximately 9 million women use illegal drugs every year. Horses provide numerous benefits including re-sensitization to touch, activation of the vagus nerve to address digestive, respiratory and circulatory issues, mind-body awareness and self-esteem, and most of all HOPE.
This program pairs the majestic horse with the powerful female spirit, and we proceed through a series of peaceful, centering, healing exercises that help bring restorative energy and balance to the body and the soul. A gentle and caring team of women will provide support, caring and compassion to women in need. Women helping women, women creating HOPE. Equine assisted activities and therapies have proven to be an excellent catalyst for change, especially for women.
If our funding goal of $7500 is reached, we will be able to offer 8 women the opportunity to experience the life changing benefits horses can bring to them. These women will become stronger emotionally and physically, they will become more productive, they will reach out to other women. A cycle of HOPE will begin, and will only enhance and bolster our communities.
