Dear Friends:
As the mother of an eight year old girl with developmental delays, autism and a sensory integration disorder, I am writing to thank you for considering helping the Free SPIRIT Riders (FSR). This program has many wonderful benefits for the children who are fortunate enough to be involved.
My daughter, Klara is in the first grade at Brandon Elementary School. Bach year, the staff meets with us to discuss Klara's progress and current needs. We met on September 7th and I would like to share the findings. Klara's eye/hand coordination has shown significant improvements (FSR has her throw beanbags into shapes from her horse). Her balance and ability to maneuver around toys and objects on the floor is better (FSR allows her to control her body by reaching for objects and trotting around the ring) Her self-esteem and self-pride have increased greatly (The volunteers continually tell Klara she is in charge of the horse). Klara is able to turn and stop her horse. She does not have full control of her senses or muscles, so the control she has with her horse is very important to her. She cannot participate in regular recreational activities such as softball or piano and has become an accomplished rider and more importantly, a happy participant.
Unfortunately, FSR has a lengthy waiting list and cannot provide services to all the children and families that are interested. FSR does not do outreach because of this waiting list or the number of families served would be much higher. However, FSR new facility, upon completion, will mean a consistent, year round schedule for many families as well as Klara.
I am asking for your help to complete the barn and riding arena. FSR has the land, they have cleared where the facility will go, but they need $500,000 to complete the building process. Your donation will do just that. Your generous support will allow this exceptional program to be ready by spring.
Although Klara can not always express herself like she would like to, I know what this riding program means to her. She asks several times a week when she gets to ride her horse. She is more organized and in control when she gets off her horse. She has found something at FSR in which she can be successful and gives her such a sense of pride. Please help us continue this wonderful program.
Sincerely,
Michelle K. Hokenson920-872-9000 home
920-929-6995 work
Associated Pediatric Therapists
Dear Sir or Madam:
We are writing to express our support of Free S.P.I.R.I.T. Riders. As pediatric therapists, we have provided therapy for several children who are also involved in this program.
The following are some of the improvements that we have observed in the children we serve. We feel these improvements can be, in part, attributed to Free S.P.I.R.I.T. Riders.
- An increase in strength of the child's extremities and trunk. As a child's strength increases, they can function more independently.
- Better eye/hand coordination and improved endurance for daily activities.
- Improved social skills, self-esteem and confidence which are important for interaction with their peers.
- Better balance both statically and dynamically. This can then be carried over into the child's functional daily activities.
We feel Free S.P.I.R.I.T. Riders is of great benefit to many area children including some of the children we serve as therapists. We appreciate the benefits this program is bringing to these children with special needs.
Please feel free to contact us regarding our support of Free S.P.I.R.I.T. Riders.
Sincerely,
Heather Selbrede, PT
Maura A. Nery, MS/CCC-LP
"I want to thank Free S.P.I.R.I.T. Riders, Inc. for the opportunity for my hearing impaired students to be involved in your program during the summer. This was a great opportunity for me to understand how beneficial therapeutic riding can be. I gained an understanding of the types of skills that can be worked on and the variety of motor skills that are included in your one hour sessions. We all looked forward to Wednesdays and the chance to go horseback riding with Free S.P.I.R.I.T. Riders!!!"
