The connection between horse and man is undeniable. You can find thousands of books and movies that showcase deep, meaningful relationships between the two. While riders and owners can share their firsthand experiences.
One East Texas nonprofit organization that understands this special bond is Starbrite Therapeutic Equestrian Center.
Through amazing interactive programs, Starbrite offers truly transformational experiences for those in need, leading to mental, physical and spiritual restoration.
Their positive impact has been spreading like wildfire, earning them the title of “East Texas’ Favorite Nonprofit” in our Nonprofit Knockout Contest!
3 LIFE-CHANGING PROGRAMS
Starbrite’s purpose is to uplift youth, adults and veterans who have a wide range of needs and abilities. With the involvement in their 3 key programs, participants can find healing, growth and connection alongside the nonprofit’s many equine friends! Take a look at each strategy, below:
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- Therapeutic Riding - These rides allow individuals with emotional, mental, and physical disabilities to experience the rhythmic motions of a horse. All of which helps improve flexibility, balance, muscle strength, all around therapeutic benefits that enhance daily living activities.
- Equine-Assisted Learning - Get up close and personal with Starbrite’s graceful horses. These sessions include engaging activities, such as horse grooming and care, which help build essential abilities of communication, emotional identification, responsibility and more!
- Horses for Heroes - Designated for a variety of Veterans, Service Members, and First Responders in the East Texas community. Ride, groom or volunteer as participants make meaningful, purposeful connections with Starbrite horses. This program is gear towards building emotion awareness, establishing trust, encouraging communication skills, increase sequence memory, balance and body awareness.
HORSES IN THE BARN
Currently, there are 13 magnificent steeds, and one charismatic miniature donkey, that call Starbrite home.
From Freyja, the bright blond Norwegian Fjord, to the ever-so patient Moonpie, all the horses here have undergone specific trainings in order to accommodate a wide variety of riders.
Their calm and friendly demeanors allow guests and staff to build incredible, life-long bonds. And everyone has a favorite! (Ours was Little Gunner, a previous coyote chaser that’s taken on a new therapeutic career.)
THE FUTURE IS “BRITE”
In a recent update, Starbrite Therapeutic Equestrian Center just broke ground on their brand new indoor facility!
Riders will be able to enjoy a 38,000ft² covered arena, decked out with giant fans. Perfect for riding in any season or weather condition. Plus, new a barn/stables for all the horse residents!
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To learn more about Starbrite’s mission, programs and upcoming events, check them out on their website and Facebook!
Peltier Subaru Supports is the latest initiative at The East Texas Weekend created to highlight local non-profits around East Texas. Each month we will feature a new organization in our region to highlight their importance within our community. If you have an idea for our next feature, let us know by emailing to andrew.terpening@kltv.com
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