Join us for the 17th Annual Big Barn Bash - Saturday, September 26
This is a unique experiential learning program where horses provide the mode of learning for special needs students in San Mateo County.
Working directly with Adapted Physical Education staff, classes of special needs students participate in two consecutive sessions.
Goals:
Increase the physical activity of students: Horseback riding and horsemanship activities require movement, balance, and coordination.
Improve the emotional well-being of students: Learning new skills and overcoming fears and challenges improve self-confidence and self-esteem.
Improve the social well-being of students: Participating in a group of their peers is a shared experience and a team-building experience during which students encourage, motivate, and support each other.
Therapeutic adaptive horseback riding program for Veterans, including disabled Veterans, those with PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, or Polytrauma. This program partners with the Veterans Administration Palo Alto Healthcare System. VA Recreational therapists participate along with their group of veterans.
Goals:
Increase physical activity: Horseback riding and horsemanship activities require movement, balance, coordination, and core strength.
Improve mental well-being: Overcoming fears and challenges and learning new skills improve self-confidence and self-esteem. Being active in the outdoors promotes better mental well-being.
Improve social well-being: Participating in a group of their peers who understand what they’ve been through, supporting, motivating, and encouraging each other improves social well-being. Bonding with a horse, trust is established. Relationships are developed.
The Veterans Commission of San Mateo County named Jasper Ridge Farm Enterprise of the Year in 2019 for providing “exemplary service to Veterans” through our HorseHeroes program. Watch video coverage here.