For those wanting to volunteer time and energy to a cause, it’s all a matter of finding a good fit. The dozen non-paid assistants at Exceptional Equestrians Unlimited, Inc. (EEUI) have done just that.
“I found out about the horse therapy program while attending a volunteer fair in Crown Point three years ago,” said EEUI barn crew member Pat Wanio. “I’m glad I followed through, this has turned out to be a wonderful experience. Everyone is very dedicated to the program and the benefits to the students are numerous.”
The volunteers are at the heart of what needs to be done on the horse therapy farm — whether its cleaning stalls, grooming, or walking the horses, according to barn manager Linda Hoelscher.
And it’s all done for the love of keeping the EEUI open to those who need it.
“This is a magical place for those with special needs to have fun and bond with their horse and sidewalkers,” she added. Our mission is to provide educational and therapeutic horseback riding activities for an improved quality of life. Professional instructors and trained volunteers assist in this endeavor in a safe and secure environment.”
Classes are held weekly, April through November.
A recent session found three youngsters making the paces with their horses, as they walked, trotted and did some exercises while on horseback.
One of the latter included tossing plastic rings on a pole held by equine manager and instructors Lisa Way.
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In addition to Way, who has been with EEUI since 1991, and Hoelscher, who has been employed 10 years, the only other paid personnel is riding instructor Brandy Beckwith.
The rest of those assisting in the group’s mission are volunteers with various years of service.
Ken Mertens of Schererville has been with EEUI for five years and currently serves as its president.
“I used to be a stable boy at Cedar Lake Salesian Brothers Camp when I was growing up. I fell in love with horses,” he said. “This (association with EEUI) was a wonderful opportunity for me. I’m very proud to be involved with this very successful program.”
One recent class session found first time customer Deveion Holmes, Sr. of Crown Point, observing his son Deveion, Jr., 7, as he rode his horse Barney.
“This (program) is everything I thought it would be,” Dad said. “It’s building my son’s confidence and communication skills. He’s very excited to come here and is always talking about Barney.”
Mom Kai Strickland of Munster is a repeat customer with her son, Jamison Mohr, 41/2.
“I’ve noticed big changes in my son since he’s started here,” she said, during a recent class. “This (riding) helps with his balance and his behavior has improved.”
Pamela Mellon of Hobart has served as treasurer of EEUI for seven years.
“This organization is the best thing I’ve ever gotten involved with because it works,” she said. “It helps students with special needs to grow, learn and enjoy life.”
She added that riders bonding with their horses are one of the side benefits of the therapy. “I call our horses little heroes. It’s a win-win for everyone!”
EEUI began in 1979 in Valparaiso and the mission has continued as the same — to help those with special needs.
Mellon hopes to persist in meeting the financial goals of her operating budget, as the organization does not receive state assistance.
“It’s very challenging to find funds to support our organization,” Mellon said. “We are on our own.”
But the motivation to keep the doors open and offer classes at EEUI stays strong, according to everyone involved. All agree that whatever it takes is fueled by the success of the program — and watching the smiling students as they learn another side of life.
Exceptional Equestrians Unlimited, Inc. classes are held each year from April through November.
Upcoming activities include fall lessons; a “Souper Stride” 5k walk-a-thon around the track fundraiser; and “Deck the Stalls”, open to the community, with a visit from Santa Claus arriving on a farm tractor.
For more information about Exceptional Equestrians Unlimited, Inc., call (219) 945-0726.
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance writer for the Post-Tribune.