Horseback riding provides therapy for people with disabilities

The Auxiliary of Stockley enjoyed a program given April 12 by Kelly Boyer and Georgia Truitt of Southern Delaware Therapeutic and Recreational Horseback Riding.  Boyer and Truitt explained their program and how beneficial it is for people with disabilities.  With individual instructors, people with disabilities can gain in many ways, such as personal development, improvement of physical abilities and development of a relationship with the horse and the instructor. This program is being considered by a governor's committee as a possible use for Stockley Center's grounds, which are currently underutilized.

The Auxiliary of Stockley, in existence since 1916, is a statewide organization serving people with developmental disabilities in Delaware. After relocation of Stockley Center residents to different communities in Delaware, the Auxiliary has been supportive of the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services day programs. There are four centers: Georgetown Center, Georgetown; First State Senior Center, Milford; Woodside Center, Woodside; and New Edge Center, Bear.

The Auxiliary of Stockley welcomes new members to help provide for special needs that improve the lifestyle of people with disabilities who cannot work and provide the basic necessities for themselves. Call Judith Kirkey, president, 302-231-8096 for more information.