Tools

Equestrian Therapeutic Center to be built on Sitrin campus

By HILARY LANE

Story Created: Sep 20, 2011 at 1:21 PM EDT

Story Updated: Sep 20, 2011 at 1:21 PM EDT

NEW HARTFORD, N.Y. (WKTV) -Sitrin Health Care Center, Upstate Cerebral Palsy and the Kelberman Center are raising funds for a building that will house 20 horses and provide therapeutic programs to help children and adults with autism, brain injuries, disabilities, and substance abuse.

The equestrian therapeutic center will be built on a wooded area on Sitrin's campus and will employ occupational, physical, speech, and equestrian therapists.

"Physically, the movement of the horse is practically identical to the human body walking. so that children or adults who have never walked can get that experience," says Dr. Alice Root, CEO and Founding director of Root Farm, a center for equine-assisted therapies in Verona. "The body doesn't know the difference."

Equestrian therapy has also proved to have emotional and psychological benefits for patients.

"The relationship with a horse is a very giving and responsive and can be very healing," says Root.

The three non-profit organizations will be working with Root Farm in Verona. The company has provided equestrian assisted therapy for more than 14 years.

A campaign to raise funds for the center is expected to begin soon. The organizations say they will also be taking advantage of grant opportunities.

If all goes as planned, the center is expected to be completed by 2013.
This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

What's On