Find out what's happening at Chastain Horse Park!
NEIGH'BORHOOD NEWS WINTER 2024 CHASTAIN HORSE PARK
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From our Executive Director BY TRISH GROSS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
As the Executive Director of Chastain Horse Park (CHP), I am filled with pride every day to be a part of this vibrant and supportive community. Nestled in the heart of Chastain, CHP is committed to our mission of empowering individuals of ALL abilities through lifechanging relationships with horses! We believe in the magic of horses and the transformative power they hold. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a curious newcomer, we have something for everyone. Our therapeutic riding programs are designed to enrich the lives of individuals with special needs, fostering confidence and independence through the gentle guidance of our amazing horses. Witnessing the progress of our riders as they overcome challenges and achieve their goals is why I show up in so many ways every day. Our school riding lessons cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders and our boarder program is home to beginner and advanced riders and their horses. We take pride in our volunteer program which is a place where so many neighbors meet to assist with our programming – everything from being a side- walker, to a horse leader, to equine wellness programs and more. Believe it or not, we fill over 1,200 volunteer slots each month! If you are interested in joining our volunteer family (it’s really a ton of fun and horse experience is not required), reach out to use at volunteer@chastainhorsepark.org. We have been part of this community for more nearly 90 years as our retaining walls around the big outdoor arena were originally built in the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. I am sure that many of you have noticed the construction underway for the past couple of years and we are excited to report that it is nearly complete. We have constructed a new Therapeutic Horsemanship Center, new boarding barn, new arenas, new paddocks and so much more. If you’re interested in learning more about us, we invite you to come for a tour. Simply reach out to us at tours@chastainhorsepark.org to coordinate a date and time for a visit. We hope to see you!
Security cameras and AV needs in Therapeutic Horsemanship Center
Contact Information 404-252-4244 INFO@CHASTAINHORSEPARK.ORG
With warm regards,
Trish Gross
4371 POWERS FERRY RD NW. ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30327
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Therapeutic Horsemanship and Equine Assisted Learning
Chastain Horse Park’s Therapeutic Program, a PATH Intl. premier accredited center, offers a variety of Equine Assisted Services within the realm of therapy, horsemanship, and mental health and education.
Therapeutic horsemanship and equine-assisted learning offer a distinctive and impactful way to enhance the physical, emotional, and social well-being of individuals facing various challenges. Therapeutic horsemanship, also known as adaptive riding, provides individuals with disabilities the chance to participate in a recreational activity that supports their physical, cognitive and emotional development. The natural movement of horses helps improve balance, coordination, and communication skills. A key advantage of horseback riding is its ability to strengthen core muscles, improve posture, and boost overall mobility, which is especially beneficial for those with physical disabilities. Activities such as grooming, leading, and riding a horse engage different muscle groups, enhance balance, and improve motor skills, creating enjoyable opportunities for children with physical disabilities to exercise. A major benefit of the program for individuals with disabilities is the development of communication and social skills. Interacting with horses requires participants to give clear commands and understand non-verbal cues, as horses respond to body language and tone. This interaction increases self-awareness and improves confidence, helping participants
communicate more effectively in social settings.
Therapeutic horsemanship and equine assisted learning offer emotional and psychological gains. Horses are intuitive creatures that often reflect the emotions and energy of the participants. This creates a non-judgmental environment for building trust, confidence, and emotional understanding. Participants frequently experience reduced anxiety, stress, and depression through their bond with horses, finding relaxation and a sense of accomplishment. therapeutic horsemanship fosters teamwork, communication, and social interaction. Group activities The social dimension of encourage collaboration with peers, certified professionals, and volunteers, while caring for horses nurtures independence and personal growth. EAL also supports problem-solving, decision- making, and leadership skills. As participants learn to care for and guide horses, they develop critical thinking abilities that extend to other areas of life. Equine-assisted learning provides a holistic, supportive approach for helping individuals with disabilities flourish.
ORGANIZATIONS THAT WE PROVIDE THERAPEUTIC SERVICES TO:
Horizon’s Atlanta Just People, Inc. Newport Academy - Newport Healthcare Shepherd Center SHARE Militatary Initiative Skyland Trail Wellspring Living
Agape Youth and Family Services Atlanta Public Schools - Carver High School Atlanta Public Schools - Crawford Long Middle School Camp Best Friends - Coan Park Therapeutic Camp - City of Atlanta Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
NEIGH'BORHOOD NEWS
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“I feel lucky that I found my talent, not unlucky that I was born with a disability. When I'm on a horse, l'm more worried about what the riding hat is doing to my hair than
what my bent legs and arms are doing. What riding has given me is respect. “
- Lee Pearson
THERAPEUTIC PROGRAM STATS WHO ARE WE PROVIDING SERVICES TO?
85% of all sessions conducted at Chastain Horse Park are within the Therapeutic Program
In 2023, we provided 5,235 therapeutic sessions
The most common diagnosis that we work with is Autism
Last year, we served individuals from 28 Georgia counties
Each therapeutic session can take up to 3 volunteers; 2 side- walkers and one horse leader
We fill over 15,000 volunteer slots annually
Our youngest client in the therapeutic program is 4 years old and the oldest is 68
75% of our client base is under the age of 18
FUNDING A THERAPEUTIC PROGRAM
Chastain Horse Park has been a 501 c 3 not for profit entity since 2002. Like all non-profits, we rely on the generosity of donors and corporations to support the therapeutic mission. In 2023, the cost for each therapeutic session was $253. Due to the strong correlation between disability and poverty, and keeping in line with national averages for our services, we charge our clients $85. The difference comes from donors like you.
CLIENT
DONOR SUBSIDIZED
CHASTAIN HORSE PARK NEWS
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Mark your Calendar
$25,000 IN DECEMBER MATCHING GRANT!
As the year draws to a close, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible strides we've made at Chastain Horse Park, thanks to the support of donors like you. This year, your generosity has enabled us to expand programs, serve more clients, and do some needed updates on equipment. Every day, we witness the profound impact of our equine-assisted services. We see the joy in the eyes of an individual with autism communicating for the first time with a horse, the confidence building in a veteran as they bond with their equine partner, and the peace of mind our services bring to families facing unimaginable challenges. As we approach the end of 2024, we ask you to consider making a year- end gift to support our mission. Your donation will help us continue to provide these life-changing experiences, ensuring that more individuals in our community can benefit from the healing power of horses. Here’s how your contribution can make a difference: $100 can cover the cost of a new helmet for a child in our therapeutic program. $250 can provide a therapeutic horsemanship session for an individual. $500 can help care for one of our therapeutic horses. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a meaningful impact. This season, double your impact by donating before December 31st. Your generosity can change lives. Please join us in giving the gift of hope, healing, and connection. Thank you for your continued support of Chastain Horse Park. We are incredibly grateful for the community that surrounds us and for the difference we make together. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year!
Volunteer Orientation JANUARY 4 FEBRUARY 1 MARCH 2 *PLEASE REGISTER ONLINE
APRIL 25, 2025 Bourbon & Burgers
Reins of Hope Gala FALL 2025
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CHASTAIN HORSE PARK
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