In addition to the excellent therapeutic horseback riding and other equine-assisted activities Special Equestrian Riding Therapy has offered the special needs community for the last 25 years, SERT also provides additional community support by
• Hosting foreign exchange students seeking information about SERT’s program, horse care, and volunteering
• Hosting field trips for adults with special needs’ work training programs and senior citizens’ assisted living facilities to acquaint them with the program and SERT’s horses, and provide an enriching experience
• Providing a meaningful venue for Boy Scouts who must complete required Eagle Scout projects
• Providing a specialized venue for students to complete community school projects
• Speaking about the special needs community at local clubs and organizations
• Hosting Special Education teachers fostering greater communication and joint programs
• Hosting field trips for both public and private elementary school children, as well as for the entire special needs community, offering hands-on opportunities to participate in various aspects of SERT’s programs through the Information Station Rotation program
• Working with the community as a resource for Community Colleges that offer veterinary programs
• Offering ground lessons and horse grooming lessons for individuals for whom riding is not an option

Contact SERT at www.sert.org for more information.

Located in Moorpark, Special Equestrian Riding Therapy (WWW.SERT.ORG) offers therapeutic equine-assisted activities for children with special needs. SERT has been serving families in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties for 23 years. I have been a volunteer with SERT for 19 years. Why? Probably three main reasons: The children and their families benefit in ways that matter to them. I truly respect and embrace the philosophy of the program and the values practiced at SERT. All donated funds go directly into the therapeutic programs. You really should come see the program. Non-verbal children learn to speak and are able to express themselves for the first time. Weak muscles gain strength. Rigid muscles relax. Children learn cooperation and so many other skills, and all while the children are actually having fun throughout their lessons. Little “miracles” happen almost daily. Just watch the faces of the parents. Silent tears of joy stream down their faces.