Equest
Equest is a therapeutic horsemanship organization based in Dallas, Texas, providing diverse programs aimed at enhancing the lives of children, adults, and veterans through equine-assisted activities.
Therapeutic Horsemanship Programs
Equest offers therapeutic horsemanship programs aimed at enhancing the lives of children and adults with diverse needs. These programs utilize horses in a therapeutic setting to address physical, emotional, and developmental disabilities. By engaging participants in horsemanship activities, Equest aims to improve their physical health, enhance emotional well-being, and build social skills.
Veterans Program at Equest
Equest operates a comprehensive veterans program designed to empower veterans and military families through equine-assisted activities. This program provides a supportive environment where veterans can engage in activities with horses, which helps them build trust, improve mental health, and foster community. The therapeutic work with horses aims to address issues such as PTSD and reintegration challenges.
Equine-Assisted Physical and Occupational Therapy
At Equest, physical and occupational therapy sessions are conducted using horse movements as a treatment tool. These therapies leverage the natural gait and movement of horses to improve balance, strength, and coordination in clients. Certified therapists work one-on-one with clients to tailor the sessions to meet their specific physical needs.
Equine-Assisted Counseling
Equest provides equine-assisted counseling services to address various mental health issues. This counseling method involves a team of licensed professionals working alongside therapy horses to support clients. The program focuses on helping individuals develop coping strategies, process emotional trauma, and improve mental health through interactions with horses.
Equest Literacy Program
Equest runs a literacy program designed to improve reading skills in 1st grade students. This program focuses on essential language skills such as rhyming and vocabulary development. By engaging students in interactive reading sessions with horses, Equest aims to foster a love for reading and improve literacy outcomes.
Mini Horse Ambassadors Program
Equest features a Mini Horse Ambassadors program where miniature therapy horses visit various locations that cannot accommodate full-sized horses. These mini horses are trained to provide therapeutic benefits in settings like hospitals, schools, and nursing homes. The program extends Equest's reach, allowing more individuals to experience the benefits of equine therapy.
Corporate Team Building Workshops
Equest hosts corporate team building workshops that incorporate equine-assisted development. These workshops are designed to improve team dynamics, communication, and leadership skills. Participants engage in a series of activities with horses that require collaboration and problem-solving, making them a unique and effective team-building experience.
Annual Fundraising Events
Equest hosts several annual fundraising events, including the Women's Auxiliary Luncheon and Fashion Show and the Blue Ribbon Gala. These events play a crucial role in raising funds to support Equest's programs and services. Attendees have the opportunity to learn more about the organization's impact and contribute to its mission.