Wings of Hope is a NPO here in Texas. For those that do not know, equestrian therapy uses the motion of riding a horse to work muscles for people who cannot walk on their own, or cannot walk very well. Most of the people who come to Wings of Hope have a mental handicap as well. The most common I’ve seen in autism, but it isn’t the only one.

I had to quit volunteering at the start of the year because it was just costing me too much in gas to drive out there. It isn’t very close to me. But the other day I was asked if I was interested in taking my little sister to volunteer if my parents paid for the gas. Of course I said yes, it is so much fun and I was disappointed I had to quit. The kids that work in the programs are just wonderful to be around. They are mostly curious and very brave; their honesty is so refreshing as well.  These kids will happily tell you whatever is on their mind.

On top of that it’s a great way to spend some time with my sister. Going out there once a week will really let us get to know each other better. She’s great with horses and did a great job tonight. I’ve seen them train multiple volunteers, but they definitely let her do far more than I’ve ever seen them let anyone else do on their first day. It was neat to see her in action. She takes care of a horse of her own, and rides with my parents. That’s what drew them to this method of volunteering now that she is 14 (or about to be anyway).

When I was there I was asked again about their website at well. Awhile back I had offered to fix it up for them, but I never got much feedback on that. Tonight they said that they were still interested. So perhaps for the first couple of weeks I will work with them on that instead of working with the kids. It’s something that I really want to do. Their website is in dire need of a makeover.