“It is an excellent program. The tone and demeanor of the facilitators is great. The content of social/emotional learning is very high. The program is a great benefit, it allows all of the kids to flourish. ”
Urban Horse Project has established a new, exciting program in Metro Vancouver that has youth working with horses, connecting with nature, and developing their confidence, self-awareness and life skills.
Pilot program highlights
Our six month pilot was a great success. We provided 46 sessions of equine assisted learning programs at Burnaby Equestrian Centre. The curriculum, the horses and the experiences with youth exceeded all our expectations.
Forty youth participated in our weekly Learning With Horses pilot program at the Burnaby Equestrian Centre. Up to ten youth participated each time, and most youth attended seven or more times. All youth participated free of cost.
Nearly all youth, and all partners, agreed the youth were learning skills that are useful elsewhere. Many positive changes in skills and behaviour were noted. Community partners are committed to continue, and other organizations are eager to join when space becomes available.
We now have an ongoing contract with the Province of BC, and grants and user fees from several sources. We are training additional facilitators, and are ready to continue this much-needed program.
“Courage! The program gives you courage if you are scared of horses.””
“It’s a chance to build friendship with the horses and give them (the horses) a chance. ”
“It’s been great. The youth really like it. I can see that it is building their confidence. They say they can see how it does help with other things in life, like negotiation. Brushing the horses helps them. ”
