Therapeutic Equestrian Center

The Therapeutic Equestrian Center, Inc.(T.E.C.)is a non profit organization that provides recreation therapy through horseback riding lessons to people with disabilities.

Description:
The Therapeutic Equestrian Center, Inc. (T.E.C.) is a private, non profit organization dedicated to providing recreation therapy through horseback riding lessons to its physically or mentally challenged riders. These students vary in age, and their lessons are specially designed to allow the rider to develop strength, flexibility and confidence while on horseback. The center is certified by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) and adheres to its guidelines to ensure safety for everyone involved. The Center is managed by a licensed executive director and is governed by a Board of Directors.

T.E.C. is located at 537 Northampton Street in Holyoke, MA, situated on the grounds of Jericho. Nestled along the basin of the Mount Tom reservation, its well-manicured grounds and indoor riding facility are certain to enhance our riders’ experience during their visit. Please visit our website at www.tecma.org for detailed directions through Mapquest.

Every year the Therapeutic Equestrian Center hosts a horse show in which its students are encouraged to participate. The show is designed to allow riders the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities on horseback. It is a day when family and friends can watch as they cheer on the riders who are free of their braces crutches and wheel chairs while on horseback.

WHY THERAPEUTIC RIDING

Therapeutic riding offers its riders a unique way to develop flexibility, balance and muscle strength as well as self-esteem. Riders who are psychologically or emotionally challenged are often able to achieve a level of confidence they could otherwise never experience. Volunteers and instructors also gain a great deal of self worth from working with these uniquely able riders.

History:
During each calendar year, the center offers 6 sessions of scheduled classes to its riders. Since each of our students needs and abilities differ, the instructors provide specialized lesson plans suited for each student. The classes are limited in size so that our students are allowed individual attention from their instructors.

Contact person: Judy Zedonis, Program Director, (413) 532-1462, (email)

Address:

36 Northampton Street Holyoke, MA 01040 (See a map)

Web Site: None specified

Miscellaneous Information

Are any opportunities appropriate for youth ages 18 or under? If yes, what age range?
	Volunteers aged 12 to 92 are welcome!

Last updated on September 28, 2009