TRAVERSE INC

Childhood should be a time of joy, growth, and accomplishment. But for ten year old Bobby it isn’t that way. Last year, he lost everything. He had watched his Mom die from cancer and his father had never been there for him. Surrounded by distant relatives, Bobby felt alone – like he didn’t belong. Bobby felt like he didn’t “have anything anymore.” Worse, he believed that he didn’t deserve anything. This once competent youngster was now uttering the words “I can’t’” with frequent regularity. By the beginning of the school year, Bobby’s grief, depression, and lack of self-esteem began to take their toll. His grades slipped; he began to have trouble with teachers; he pushed away those who reached out to him, believing that if he allowed himself to care for someone, they would go away too. While his Grandmother and other extended family had come together to provide for his physical needs, they were overwhelmed by his mood swings and behavior problems, as much of the energy were drained by their own grief.
His concerned family sent Bobby to counseling but, but typical of a ten year old, he didn’t “like it” and would sit in the chair with his head down, his lower lip stuck out. Bobby’s participation in counseling amounted to: “can I go now, is it time yet?”
TRAVERSE is a therapeutic equestrian program designed to help traumatized children to a belief in themselves, and an ability to care about others. While the work with horses is what attracts the children, the therapeutic posture of the staff is what makes the difference.
After several months in the program, Bobby’s grades are improving; there are fewer complaints from his teachers; he is more compliant with his Grandmother’s requests, and he has opened a relationship with a school counselor. TRAVERSE is making a difference for Bobby. With consistent support, patience, perseverance, and the help of a horse, the staff of TRAVERSE have helped Bobby to believe that "he can."
TRAVERSE: Bridging the Gap between Trauma and Hope.