4-H equestrian program gives kids newfound self-esteem

NORWAY, Mich. (WLUC) - The 4-H Proud Equestrian Program kicked off this week at the Dickinson County Fairgrounds in Norway.

Youth and young adults aged five to twenty-six with disabilities came to Norway this week to ride horses. The Proud Equestrian Program has taken place for over 40 years and helps kids with disabilities improve motor coordination and balance, along with core strength.

Organizers say that the program increases self-esteem and confidence and enhances learning, attention, and listening skills, to name a few. One of the unsung heroes of the week is the many horses that adapt to the riders and provide the comfort the riders are looking for.

Bonnie DePue is an instructor in the program; she said this program can teach skills and help riders become independent.

“That human animal bond is very strong with horses, and giving them that independence on top of that big animal- the autonomy to move it around and you go where you want it, instead of someone always saying you go here and you go there and you do this. They’re getting to tell this huge animal and in return that animal takes care of them and they give them little nuzzles. It’s a bond and it’s such a big thing.”

The volunteers also leave this program with a stronger understanding of horses. They network with other volunteers and leave the experience with a true sense of fulfillment.

“Volunteers make new friends. They look forward to certain students they worked with last year. They learn a little bit about themselves. And being part of something bigger than who you are, who you think you are,” DePue said. “You know, being a part of a bigger community, stepping outside the worries of your day and being able to give back to someone else, that’s a big thing.”

Caitlia Parker is a volunteer this year and said the best part is seeing the kids grow.

“I definitely think my favorite part about being here is seeing these kids come in, not having much experience with a horse and having a wonderful ride on the horse; it just makes them so happy, and I love seeing their smiles,” Parker said.

If you have been a part of this annual event, each year gives you pause, as you realize how special this week truly is for the riders. DePue said the program culminates in a day of fun.

“They all love this and their horses that they get to ride a horse every day for a week, and a lot of their friends don’t get to do that. Seeing their smiles, seeing their parents say, ‘I don’t believe he’s doing that,’ and all the new things that this week will give us,” DePue said. “Every day there will be something new with somebody, and at the end of the week when we do our final event of the week, we do games and awards and all that stuff, but it will be watching them grow every day.”

If you still want to volunteer to help this week, organizers say to go to the Dickinson County Fairgrounds in Norway, and they will get you started right away.

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4-H equestrian program gives kids newfound self-esteem

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