Aiden first discovered Hope Haven in 2018 while attending the Saddle Up for Success (SUFS) school program. The SUFS program provides students with the opportunity to develop stronger self-confidence and coping strategies to better manage anxiety, fear, frustration and anger.
Aiden quickly grew to love the centre, and even after the 4-week program ended, he continued with adaptive riding lessons and horsemanship programs helping to groom and feed the horses on a weekly basis.
“Hope Haven is in my heart. I should probably change my name to Aiden Haven.”
Aiden, Student and Hope Haven Alumnus
As an Energizing Life Community Fund recipient, Hope Haven Therapeutic Riding Centre can support 100 more kids through the Saddle Up for Success program, contributing to their psychological, physical and emotional wellbeing. Watch the video to meet Aiden, the amazing team at Hope Haven and see how they’re energizing people of all abilities to take the reins.
Watch the video
Hope Haven is a specialized equestrian riding centre servicing Markdale, Collingwood and surrounding areas. The centre offers adaptive riding, horsemanship, recreational therapy, hippotherapy and educational programs. The incredible staff and volunteers create safe and constructive programs for youth of all abilities to attend, allowing visitors to interact with horses and learn more about riding and grooming techniques. During the process, youth who may begin the program timid or anxious start to get involved, find their voice and create everlasting friendships.
The SUFS program had a deep impact on Aiden, and many other kids just like him. The magic that Hope Haven created for Aiden and other kids is truly a sight to be seen. Each year, Hope Haven welcomes over 250 students from schools in the Grey Bruce and the Southern Georgian Triangle areas. There are currently approximately 120 riders visiting each week, with a 40% increase in ridership since the start of the pandemic.
Hope Haven also offers a physiotherapy program using Hippotherapy treatment, utilizing the movement of the horse to help improve muscle strength, core stability and motor skills. “Hippos” comes from the Greek word for horse; the treatment uses the movement of the horse to create rhythmic movement which encourages the rider to achieve proper balance and posture, with no harsh impacts on their body. Each treatment session is done with the help of a physiotherapist to assist with a wide spectrum of neurological and orthopedic conditions across all ages.
Diagnosed with Pallister Killian Syndrome, 11-year-old Tatum has been coming to the centre for Hippotherapy for several years. Tatum’s treatment program has been transformative in helping to develop and increase her core strength, coordination and balance. Not only is this program improving her mobility, but is improving her mental health as well. Tatum’s mom shared that coming to Hope Haven is her daughter's absolute joy, which is apparent by the huge smile she has while riding and engaging with the horses.
For more information on Hope Haven Therapeutic Riding Centre and how to get involved, visit www.hopehavencentre.org.
