I’m a rider there and a volunteer. I use to be unable to be in crowded areas, do anything that required to have attention on me and would cause massive anxiety. I started not only riding but showing under Bakas, not long after I got my own horse and have branched off to shows that are not like special Olympics. I started talking to random people, being more outspoken and have grown in confidence. I even participate in their drill team performances for special Olympics.
I had joint replacement surgery followed by 6 weeks of physical therapy. I wasn't happy with my progress. Finally decided to retry my passion for riding horses. I found Bakas where I felt comfortable and safe. The staff is supportive, encouraging and very patient! They have helped me regain my strength and balance. I am so grateful for all their time and help.
I've volunteered with Bakas for 20 years now and I'm still impressed with the barn staff and how they work with riders of all abilities and skill levels. Dani and Gina are stars in the field of therapeutic riding, and both have dedicated their whole lives to this mission. I highly recommend visiting the barn, especially to support the local Special Olympics equestrian events. They do such a great job with the Area games, they are sought after not only to help organize the State Championships, but also were instrumental in making Nationals (USA Games) run super smoothly. These guys know their stuff! Kudos and great thanks.
Wonderful, dedicated staff. Bakas provides gentle guidance to help my handicapped son find real joy in the equestrian world.
My son loves it here, it’s his happy place. A place where he feels comfortable, loved, valued, and at ease with himself. It’s on a beautiful location that just being there relaxes everyone. The people who work there treat us with love and respect. They love their careers and it shows through their actions.
They are amazing!!! They have helped my daughter build up her confidence and self esteem through riding. They gave her a purpose and a community to grow with.
Bakas is an amazing program for disabled individuals. My daughter is a rider there, and now also has her own horse to ride. They built her confidence helped her with communicating with others, responsibility, relationships, skills, and even got her love competition! I am very proud of her and proud of bakas for helping make a better quality of life for her! ❤️ Her goal now is to work with others who are disabled thru equine therapy.