Hear it from our riders and their loved ones.
Logan’s Story
Thank you so much, Discovery Riders, for the great opportunity for my son, Logan. You have made it possible for him to share his heart with the most amazing horses. I have seen such a change in him that makes my heart proud. He reacts to Miss Sarah’s teachings in a way that he doesn’t to anyone else. She is awesome! This program helps so many and most who wouldn’t be able to afford it.
Thank you, we love you all.
Cullen’s Story
My husband and I were fortunate to connect our autistic son with Discovery Riders several years ago. He is a wonderful young teen who struggles with communicating conversationally and can be very shy. He also has never been able to join other kids in typical activities such as sports, riding bikes or swimming. The older he gets, the more noticeable the differences are to other kids his age and his confidence and willingness to try new things has really suffered as a result.
But of course, animals are never judgmental, and Cullen has a special place in his heart for four-legged furry friends. We knew he liked horses because he’d had several really positive experiences in the past. What we didn’t know was how – for the first time in his life – something would seem to come naturally to him. How comfortable and confident he would act while atop an animal ten times his size. How he would listen and respond and succeed while at the same time feeling safe, nurtured and challenged.
The dedication of the staff and volunteers at Discovery Riders is inspiring. But to be truly great, it takes so much more than a commitment. The true greatness of this team is that they know what they’re doing, and they strive every day to make life extraordinary for those of us who benefit from their skill. Because of Discovery Riders, my son is stronger, more confident, and has a special experience that most kids only dream about. We are blessed to have “discovered” this organization!
Davin's Story
I want to express my gratitude towards you, Discovery Riders, the volunteers, and more importantly, Ms. Tammy, Ms. Sara, Ms. Lynn, and Ms. Monica.
Although we've been going to Discovery Riders for years, last night's session left me almost speechless. It literally brought tears of happiness to our eyes (mine and Avery's Mother's). In a world that we live in today it's not often we get happy tears so I felt compelled to acknowledge last night's session and to send my sincerest gratitude.This year has been an emotional roller coaster thus far. Between raising a teenage son, dealing with the complexity of Davin, and balancing the life of a pre-teen daughter it's been mentally and physically exhausting to say the least. Last nights's session was just what I needed. I was able to relax and enjoy the moment without any worries.
I watched as Davin had the time of her life, accomplishing goals she's desired since she's been 8 years old. Watching Davin smile from ear to ear, and possessing the confidence she has so desperately been lacking meant the world to me as her Mother. I was so proud of her and overwhelmed with joy. In that instance I didn't have to worry if someone was mistreating her, hurting her feelings, taunting or being cruel to her. In that instance I didn't have to worry if she would reach another low, or if she would cry herself to sleep another night; all of which are things I worry about on a continuous basis. Last night I was granted my serenity and I can't thank Ms. Tammy, Ms. Monica, Ms. Sara, and Ms. Lynn enough!
The devotion and kindhearted spirits of the volunteers is truly amazing. Thank you for allowing us to be apart of this awesome program.-Amy, Current Rider's Mother
