UPDATE: A severe horse shortage is jeopardizing the future of the beloved Riding for the Disabled (RDA) program in Glenorchy, prompting urgent calls for assistance. With only three horses remaining for 14 participants, the RDA faces a critical situation that could force the center to close its doors.
Claudia Nevah, a dedicated volunteer for 17 years, has witnessed the decline firsthand. “We have an older horse that needs retiring and a Standardbred that can’t trot,” she stated. The need for suitable horses is pressing, as participants require different sizes and temperaments to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
The RDA program plays a crucial role in providing therapeutic horse riding for individuals with disabilities, helping them build confidence and connect with trained volunteers. However, the organization is struggling to find horses that meet their stringent safety requirements. Nevah emphasized the importance of temperament, stating, “A good horse must be respectful and not pushy.”
Currently, RDA is appealing to the community for help. “We hope the center doesn’t close down, but if we don’t find horses, our participants have nothing to ride,” Nevah said. The organization is actively seeking individuals with suitable horses to lease or anyone who might have leads on potential candidates.
The shortage is compounded by the unique needs of RDA’s participants. Horses between the ages of 8 to 16 and sizes 14.2 to 15 hands are ideal for the program. Nevah cautioned against the misconception that lazy horses are the best fit. “There’s nothing more frustrating for our participants than a horse that won’t move forward,” she explained.
RDA has been a vital service in the community for over 50 years, but without adequate support and volunteers, its future remains uncertain. Nevah reiterated the need for volunteers in various roles, from maintenance to horticulture. “We need volunteers in all areas,” she stressed, noting that individuals as young as 12 years old can participate.
This urgent situation highlights the critical need for community involvement to sustain the RDA. If you can help by leasing a horse or volunteering, the organization encourages you to reach out. Without immediate action, the essential services provided by RDA could be lost, leaving participants without the support they desperately need.
As the clock ticks, the future of the Riding for the Disabled hangs in the balance. Will you answer the call? Share this urgent message to help find solutions and keep this vital program alive.
