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Program Requirements:
Applicants must have a documented disability
Applicant must be one of the following: · Military personnel on active duty · Military personnel in the reserves · Veteran of military services.
Applicants must be able to maintain sitting balance unaided. |
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Therapeutic Opportunities SPUR Horses for Heroes offers several program opportunities. Each session generally includes both mounted and non-mounted activities. However, non-mounted programs are available. Lessons are scheduled on a first come-first served basis.
Private Session Private sessions are a half hour in length and offer the participant one-on-one attention from the instructor. In addition to the instructor, all participants will begin with a leader and a side-walker to assist during the session.
Private sessions are 30 minutes in length and are scheduled in conjunction with the SPUR riding sessions.
Group Sessions Groups interested in scheduling lessons may book by request throughout the year. Participants will ride in groups of up to five for one hour. Groups larger than five will be divided into multiple lessons.
Individuals wishing to participate in group lessons will be placed into groups when available.
Non-mounted Activities Individuals or groups who are unable to participate in mounted activities may request non-mounted programs. Non-mounted activities include both horse care and stable management skills. Activities will be chosen based on participant interest and ability.
Application may be downloaded submitted at any time. Applications must include a medical form completed by the applicant’s physician. |
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Scholarships Participants who are in need of financial assistance may pursue several options.
SPUR Scholarship - the SPUR Board of Directors offers need-based scholarships. Participants may complete an application form and submit it in lieu of payment.
Other funding – Participants who have funding from other sources may use it for lessons. Such sources may include, but are not limited to, the following:
· American Legion · Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) · Disabled American Veterans · ELKS · Air Warrior Courage Foundation
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Volunteering Active or veteran service members are needed to assist with lessons as leaders and sidewalkers. Volunteers also groom and tack the horses in preparation for each lesson. Volunteers must be able to walk for at least one hour, jog for short periods and be able to support the weight of a rider when necessary.
No prior horse experience is necessary. However, all volunteers are required to complete a brief training program before assisting with lessons.
If you are interested in volunteering, please call (732) 224-1367 for more information. |
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Therapeutic riding programs have been proven to help both active military personnel and veterans with a variety of disabilities to improve their physical balance, gait and morale. |
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SPUR offers equine activities to military members with disabilities - active duty, reserve or veteran. The SPUR Horses for Heroes program works with a wide range of special needs, including but not limited to, amputations (both upper and lower limbs), paraplegia, traumatic brain injury, visual impairments and post traumatic stress disorder.
SPUR Horses for Heroes offers mounted and non-mounted activities in either a group or private setting. Lesson goals and daily activities are based on each participant’s individual needs and abilities. |
