My Nonprofit Reviews
Jeannette C
Review for Back In The Saddle Equine Therapy Center, Hopkinton, NH, USA
Hunter, who is on the Autism spectrum, had his first lesson. A handsome, 6-yr old, he fought getting on the horse and in only two minutes, signed ‘all done.’ Through it all he covered his ears and was very resistant to any activity at all. He would not touch or brush the horse.
At his 8th lesson, he mounted the horse with almost no help; held the reins, sat up straight - posted 5x times in each direction! –smiling, totally engaged. He brushed his horse, helped put the saddle away and thanked everyone!
Hunter arrives in Nana’s lap at BITS. (She needs a wheelchair.) Grampa drives them as he no longer can work, but helps his wife raise their Grandson. He used to just watch. But on this day, the volunteer, who sidewalks with the client, was late, Grampa was asked to sidewalk. It was hard to tell which person received the most joy from the lesson, Hunter or Grampa!
And a new volunteer was born.
Many retired volunteers are working to raise funds to help BITS - financially. The Center wants to offer scholarships to parents. BITS ETC’s goal is to have everyone ride free or for a nominal payment – scholarships picking up the real costs.
Now the veteran’s program begins. A chance for our heroes to experience the healing power of horses. Not just the veterans, but their families will take part in care and handling of our equine therapists.
I’m very grateful that I can participate as a 69 year old volunteer!
Jeannette Cagle
Learn more at: www.bitsetc.org
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
the time I spend there and meet the parents, veterans and children who participate.
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
find a way to increase the donations and income so more and more would be helped.
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
A lot
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
What one change could this group make that would improve your volunteer experience?
have the funds to relieve the director of some of the work involved in fundraising activities.
Did your volunteer experience have an effect on you? (teaching you a new skill, or introducing new friends, etc.)
The more time I spend with this program, the more I appreciate the wonder of people with challenges being able to overcome and adapt as long as they have some help and direction.
How did this volunteer experience make you feel?
It's when I feel the most reward, satisfaction and confidence that I am helping people.
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
