EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Children from Every Little Blessing spent part of their summer camp learning about horses and participating in therapeutic riding activities through a partnership with KNJ Therapeutic Riding and the Down Syndrome Coalition for El Paso.
KNJ’s Program Director Lenora Sutherland said the camp gives children an opportunity to interact with horses while taking part in hands-on activities.
Campers rotated through several stations, including painting horseshoes, making horse treats and playing horse-themed games.
School Spotlight: Summer campers enjoy therapeutic riding experience
Sutherland said KNJ Therapeutic Riding provides horse therapy services to individuals with special needs as well as those without special needs.
Lydia Rios, vice president of the Down Syndrome Coalition for El Paso, said partnerships like the one with KNJ Therapeutic Riding help create meaningful opportunities for children in the community.
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“I would really love to thank KNJ,” Rios said. “They have been great to us. We love community partnerships, but this one is especially meaningful because they are inclusive and open to helping kids like mine.”
Rios said she sees firsthand the positive impact the experience has on the children from Every Little Blessing who participate in the program.
Volunteer Carolina Munoz said horseback riding helps create lasting memories for both children and their families.
“The smiles and the memories that they make out here are really beautiful,” Munoz said. “Parents are happy seeing their kids try something new, and the kids are excited about what they are able to accomplish.”
Organizers said the program helps children build confidence while enjoying a unique summer camp experience.
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