THE 8 PROGRAMS
OUR RIDERS ARE OUR MISSION
There are three 10 week “sessions” per year. Fall, Winter and Spring. All clients use safety helmets, belts & boots, and have 1 to 3 volunteers assigned to them at all times.
THERAPEUTIC RIDING FOR THE MENTALLY & PHYSICALLY DISABLED
Lessons, therapy and trail riding for children and adults who are hearing and visually impaired, accident victims, brain injury, downs, cerebral palsy, polio, developmentally delayed and many other disabilities. The riding helps them with their balance, motor skills, etc.
There is a physiotherapist involved and sometimes an occupational therapist plus teacher, aides, caregivers, and primary caregivers.
Physical benefits
Therapy, lessons, trail rides for multiply handicapped children & adults with a physiotherapist always in attendance.
(children & adults)
Physical benefits
EQUINE EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING PROGRAM
For autism spectrum disorders, specifically asperger syndrome in children.
(children & youth)
Social, psychological benefits
EQUINE FACILITATED PSYCHOTHERAPY PROGRAM
- “The Stable Program”
For depression, anxiety, abuse, trauma, and extreme behavioural issues in children.
(children at risk between 8 & 11 years of age)
Psychological, social and educational benefits
VOLUNTEERS REHABILITATION PROGRAM
For specific direction and assistance with the work force in conjunction with the Community Justice Organization, John Howard Society, and Schools; for instance the Mental Health Association is sending a trained crisis intervention and suicide intervention man to assist with a 14 year old who has 20 community hours to do.
(youth & adults)
Psychological, social and educational benefits
PEER LIAISON & COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAM
For high school students who get credits for their graduation, college and other community students who desire work experience to further their education eg; for instance the North Island College Nursing program, the NIC caregivers program, Katimavik; e.g. the nursing program sends a 3rd year student for 3 months of the year to do a practicum.
Educational benefits (youth & adults)
VAULTING PROGRAM - “The Valley Vaulters”
For developing balance, confidence and harmony with the horse for any riding discipline.
(at risk children & mostly youth)
Psychological benefits
For developing confidence, and introducing tools for anger management, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder and fear. This course is designed in ground work only – no riding.
(veterans from Bosnia and Afghanistan - adults)
Psychological, educational, social and physical benefits
Riding instruction is given by qualified instructors under the guidance of physiotherapists and occupational therapists. Riders are assisted by trained volunteers during all phases of their riding activities. Safety gear is provided.
The horses for this program are especially schooled for use with disabled persons and are sponsored through donations.
All activities are planned and supervised by the C.V.T.R.S. Program Coordinator.
We are members of both the Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CANTRA) and the British Columbia Therapeutic Riding Association (BCTRA).
WHERE DO WE RIDE?
We ride in a covered arena, outside riding rings and through wooded trails on the banks of the Tsolum River near Courtenay, B.C., Canada. You can find us on this printable map of Courtenay.
