Rain Can’t Dampen STRIDES Fundraiser
It rained, but it didn’t seem to matter to the eager participants in STRIDES Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program’s second annual Farm Family Day held recently.
Proceeds from the event benefit Trinity Services to provide homes and support for people with intellectual disabilities and mental illness.
Special Trinity Riders Involved in Developing Equestrian Skills (STRIDES) was founded in 1990, after the Exchange Club of Lockport hosted a day of horseback riding for those with special needs.
“Despite some rain and having to modify the event to be indoors, we had a wonderful turnout, and we were pleased to welcome hundreds of visitors to meet our animals,” Laura Blume, STRIDES Program Coordinator, said of the Farm Family Day event held at the STRIDES Manhattan facilities.
“Families enjoyed horseback riding, the petting zoo, lawn games, and an animal photo booth with a mini donkey named Crush and mini-cow named Rio.
“We could not have asked for a better crowd,” Blume said.
“We greatly appreciate all the donations that help to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”
STRIDES offers birthday parties, a petting zoo, professional photo shoots, camp, riding lessons, and other fun events for all ages and abilities.
In addition to providing a social and recreation resource, STRIDES also serves as a supported employment site for people who are interested in working at the stable.
To learn more or to contact STRIDES, go to http://www.trinityservices.org/strides.