Therapeutic riding center honors local supporters
Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding Center held a special event July 13 at its Milton location to recognize and thank donors for their continued support. SDTR, with the aid of more than 150 local volunteers, is dedicated to improving the physical and emotional well-being of children and adults living with disabilities.
Three donors received special awards for their involvement with SDTR.
John and Bryn Burke, longtime champions of the program, were presented with the Impact Award in recognition of their advocacy, support and dedication to SDTR’s success.
Carolyn Cicio, Giving Committee chair for the Atlantic Community Thrift Shop in Ocean View, accepted the Community Advocate Award for the positive impact the group continues to make on the SDTR community.
Michael Bell, president of Harvard Business Services of Lewes, received the Sustaining Champion Award for the company’s generous support and ongoing commitment to SDTR’s mission.
Individual riders and family members were also present to share stories of how their personalized riding lessons with Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship-certified instructors has improved their physical capabilities and enriched their lives. The SDTR team and volunteers become part of every rider’s community.
SDTR currently averages 60 lessons a week with its herd of six horses. The wait list for potential clients is long, and the organization has room to grow the herd and expand its ridership. To learn how to become a Trailblazer and directly impact the local community, visit sdtrhr.com/donate/trailblazer.
Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding is a volunteer-driven, nonprofit organization that was established in 1988. Its mission is to improve the physical and emotional well-being of children and adults living with disabilities through equine-assisted services in a supportive environment for riders and their families. The program serves children and adults throughout Sussex County with physical and developmental disabilities such as cerebral palsy, autism, Down syndrome, multiple sclerosis and head trauma. SDTR strives to bring the advantages of therapeutic riding and other equine-assisted activities to all members of the community who can benefit. To learn more, visit sdtrhr.com.
