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Awards: 2008 Circle of Honour Recipients

Community Association for Riding for the Disabled (CARD) - Service - 2008

CARD is a non-profit organization whose mission statement is to help improve the lives of children and adults with disabilities through quality therapeutic horseback riding programs. 

Since 1969, CARD has helped riders with physical and cognitive disabilities participate in beneficial physical activity. The services provided by CARD enrich the lives of children with disabilities by giving them a sense of accomplishment allowing them to reach their full potential. 

“I have had the pleasure of seeing how my son has grown in so many aspects of development through his riding.  He eagerly awaits his next ride and he often expresses his passion for the horses.  Riding has given him more confidence and increased his self-esteem,” said Ingrid Hanslep, mother of a CARD rider.

Riders have progressed to competition levels as high as the Paralympic Competitions and many other highly–competitive equestrian events. As riders learn skills associated with horseback riding, they are able to meet their goals and overcome challenges, gaining confidence and self-esteem. They also develop a special bond with the horses.

“Having been a volunteer with CARD for almost 20 years, I have witnessed firsthand the ‘Magical Connection’ between the horse and rider,” said Seana Waldon. 

Approximately 500 children and adults participate in CARD’s therapeutic riding program each year.  This is made possible by the 11 paid staff members and over 350 volunteers at CARD including certified instructors and skilled equestrian staff. CARD’s 19 specially trained horses are carefully selected to provide optimal benefits to the riders. Each horse has a different personality and life history.  

The CARD facility was specifically designed and built for therapeutic riding. The facility is equipped with a hydraulic mounting block, ceiling lifts, and special washrooms, all with accessibility in mind.

CARD is making the lives of children with disabilities better everyday by providing joy, pride, confidence, improved health and giving riders the chance to foster a relationship with another living being, creating a truly magical connection.

Back to 2008 Circle of Honour Recipients

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