The importance of community connections was yet again demonstrated when Middle School’s Pet Club members were offered a unique opportunity to learn about how well-cared for equine animals can help those in need.
Members of the Port Jervis-based Victory Hill Therapeutic Horsemanship staff came to the Middle School on Oct. 15. to speak with club members. They brought a pony and miniature donkey, who play key roles in their operations, to meet students.
Founder, Executive Director and Head Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor Laurie Bryceland spoke to students about how the organization’s equine animals work with a wide range of people who are looking for an innovative way to help their mental and emotional wellbeing, including programs for at-risk youth, children and adults with special needs, veterans, active military families and first responders.
She spoke to students about Victory Hill’s therapeutic riding, equine assisted learning, hippotherapy, (a treatment that uses a horse's movement to help improve physical, occupational, and speech therapy skills), “Horses 4 Heroes,” Crossroads, “Hope for Healers,” vocational training and horsemanship programs. Students also learned they could volunteer with Victory Hill and be part of their mission to help others.
But it was “Lacey,” the pony, and miniature donkey Dixie Lu who captured students’ attention.
After talking about Victory Hill’s many programs, Ms. Bryceland spoke about the special guests she brought along to the school. She explained their role at Victory Hill as well as how staff care for them. Students were invited to ask questions and Ms. Bryceland gladly shared voluminous details. Later, they lined up — many with cell phone to grab photos — to meet the animals up close and were allowed to pet their neck areas.
“This year, the Pet Club is focusing on educating students regarding the various types of pets and the proper care for them,” said Club Advisor Kristine Ostensen. “Throughout the year guest speakers will be joining our students to share their experience and knowledge with them. We are so grateful to have them as part of our community and so lucky that Victory Hill was able to join us and share information about their very important work.”
To learn more about Victory Hill and its mission or to volunteer, visit: https://victoryhillth.org/