Urban Equestrian Programs

How LUCK works:

LUCK is not a traditional therapeutic riding program. Our message is one of empowerment to the 10-18 year old, able-bodied, at-risk students attracted to our programs while most traditional therapeutic programs are conducted in ways that define the population served as “less than.” In other words, “you” have a deficiency and that is why you get to work with horses and be healed—but you need us (the agency) to do that for you. Additionally, urban students in traditional programs are bused to facilities in the suburbs or country, intimating that they are allowed access because there is a determination of need—again often based on deficiency or if “we” allow it. This method also suggests that a participant’s access can be taken away for a variety of reasons (loss of transportation, changing schools, being “diagnosed” as not “needing” the therapy).

LUCK lets our participants know, loudly and clearly, that we need them to:

1) strengthen horses physically and mentally so they can help others—be that working with a child who has suffered trauma or giving joy to a community through equestrian art performances.

2) learn the art of classical horse training, a skill that will require you to practice patience, compassion, self-compassion, and empathy so you can help horses find joy in their work with people.

3) understand verbal and non-verbal communication, so you can hear what your horse needs

and advocate for them.

4) engage in the classical tradition of mentorship, be willing to learn from others who have more experience so that one day you can teach others what you have learned.

5) trust your mentors as they help you set personal goals and work with others as a team to meet them.

6) Practice self-reflection to determine what brings you joy and allow that to guide your growth developing talents and skills you value.

LUCK’s monthly programs are free of charge and no preteen or teen is turned away, providing we have the capacity to accommodate them. Participants work with horses, some rescued from slaughter. LUCK provides skill building, introduction to horsemanship, and fundamentals of horsemanship programs; workshops for students interested in related trades such as farrier work or braiding; internships; employment opportunities; individual lessons; and opportunities to compete.

Embedded in each programmatic level are fundamentals of Ohio Department of Education curriculum (math, science, physical education) as well as soft skills like critical thinking, communication, conflict mediation, teamwork, and negotiation.

Other Established Urban Equestrian Programs

Compton Jr. Posse, Los Angeles, CA
City Ranch Inc., Baltimore, MD
Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club, Philadelphia, PA
Detroit Horsepower, Detroit, MI
More!

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