When will the Best of Friends program sessions be held?
The 2010 season will have two riding sessions. The longer session will operate on Saturdays (from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.) for 28 weeks from March 20 through November 6, 2010. An additional 9 week session will be held on Mondays (3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.) from June 14 through August 16, 2010. Students can participate in a combination of Saturdays and Mondays with advance notice and as class size permits. The awards dinner for both groups will be held this year on November 13, 2010.
We can accommodate additional groups at other times and days with advance notice.
How much does it cost?
We request $250 for the 28 week Saturday session, which averages out to $10 per riding session; we are asking $100 for our Monday afternoon session. (This includes all activities in addition to regular classes such as parades, picnics, weekly refreshments, and finally our awards dinner held this year on November 13, 2010. We ask that students commit to a specific number of classes for scheduling purposes. We have scholarships available (through donations by private individuals and/or organizations) to help those who cannot cover all of these costs. The riding session fees are allocated to pay for such items as purchase of equipment for the students and the care of the horses. It is our hope to eventually obtain enough grant and sponsorship monies to enable us to offer this program to students without cost to them. Toward this goal, the instructors, board of directors, and other persons participating donate their time to help make the Best of Friends program possible.
How much time do the students spend riding?
Each session is 30 minutes. We ask that students and volunteers be on time so that riding time for each participant is maximized. The first class is dedicated to making sure the student is adequately matched with the horse; we then assess which equipment is most helpful for each specific disability. A few minutes at the beginning of the session is needed for the instructor to ensure that students are safely mounted on theri horse. Thereafter each session attempts to give students at least 25 minutes of riding time.
Each class is prudently limited to 4 or 5 students on horses, so that we can give each student the maximum amount of attention possible. We also reasonably attempt to match persons with similar disabilities so that there is a levelized learning experience for the students. Families and therapists are generally present for the classes to further encourage students.
What type of exercises do the students perform?
Each session is designed to build on the prior session. We attempt to utilize the information provided by physical therapists and/or parents to frame classes and focus on specific areas. There are exercises to stretch muscles and also games that are played to achieve as much mental stimulation as is possible. Finally, we try to make each class not only a learning and healthy experience but a fun one as well.
If you are interested in participating in Best of Friends, what do you have to do?
If you would like to participate in the Best of Friends program, you should indicate whether you want to participate as a rider or volunteer and either send a note to:
Best of Friends, PO Box 94, Johnstown, PA 15907-0094
or call the Best of Friends phone number - (814) 243-0759.
We will add your name to our list and send you forms and scheduling information once we have your contact information.
For Riders: There are several forms which MUST be filled out by students PRIOR to being able to ride. These forms will be sent out upon request of potential participants. These forms provide us with information on the type of disability and include a doctor's certificate indicating that the student is physically able to ride. Riders should be at least 5 years old and diagnosed with a disability. There are no other limits as we work with persons of all ages, disabilities, and sizes.
For Volunteers: The questionnaires not only address your availability but also knowledge of horses since we have people who lead the horses as well as side walkers. The horse leader should have some horse experience as the person in control of the horse. However, horse knowledge is not a requirement to participate in the program. The side walkers are primarily responsible for assisting with the students during the session. Volunteers should be at least 11 years of age. There are no other age limitations except that participation often requires some physical exertion, such as a good bit of walking. Additionally, we are always interested in having people (especially those with some type of therapeutic degree) who may be interested in becoming instructors or serving on our Board of Directors.
If you can't volunteer, are there other ways you can help?
Best of Friends can always use donations. Donations are tax deductible and help to provide scholarships for students, helmets and riding equipment, as well as helping to defray the costs associated with taking care of the horses (which is a year round expense).
Sponsors
BE A FRIEND TO BEST OF FRIENDS
Please join Our Circle of Friends at any giving level:
A. The Unbridled Platinum Plus Benefactors Giving Level: Any level of giving above $2500.
B. The Platinum Plus Stable Giving Level: Sponsor a horse for a year for $2500.
C. The Platinum Paddock Giving Level: Sponsor a horse for 6 months for $1250.
D. The Golden Saddle Giving Level: Sponsor the purchase of special riding equipment.
E. The Golden Friend Giving Level: Sponsor a rider for 20 lessons for $300.
F. The Silver Stirrup Giving Level: Sponsor a rider for 10 lessons for $150.
G. The Blue Ribbon and Trophy Fund: Sponsor an award.
H. The Golden Carrot Fund: Sponsor Horse Treats.
I. The National Velvet Friendship Fund: Any level donation.
All donations are gratefully accepted and are tax deductible - Best Of Friends is a 401c(3) non-profit organization.
Best of Friends is a member of the Pennsylvania Council on Therapeutic Horsemanship.
We thank you for your consideration and support!!
Thank you for your interest in Best of Friends!!
We hope to hear from you soon! Happy Trails.
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