The Arc of Caddo-Bossier's recreational programs combine fun, therapy, and education into one experience. The programs are designed to have physical, psychological, and social benefits. Participants can improve strength, endurance, and coordination. They gain independence and pride in new abilities, have challenging experiences, and meet new friends.
Recreational Programs
GREAT
GREAT is a program of The Arc of Caddo-Bossier and receives its primary funding from individual contributions, civic organizations, annual fundraisers, foundations, and corporations. GREAT is located in a new state-of-the-art facility on beautiful Greenwood-Springridge Road in Greenwood, Louisiana.
Staff GREAT provides a staff of NARHA (North American Riding for the Handicapped Association) certified instructors. The staff is trained and dedicated to having a positive impact on each student's physical, psychological and social well being. GREAT's purpose is to promote a healthy and productive life for people with physical, cognitive and multiple disabilities through therapeutic horseback riding.Volunteers are a major factor in the success of the program. They assist students with their riding lessons and help care for the horses. Volunteers from Caddo and Bossier Parishes as well as East Texas will log in excess of 5,000 hours this year. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old.
The GREAT horses are donated, leased, or rescued. Each therapy horse goes through an extensive training period prior to beginning lessons.
Therapeutic Riding Lessons
Riding lessons are scheduled in twelve week sessions in spring and fall; and a four week session in summer. Parents can schedule their children for private or group lessons. GREAT provides four 6-week sessions (two in spring and fall) for Caddo Parish Schools' Adaptive Physical Education Program. Students attend with their adaptive physical education teacher and licensed therapist who assist the student in accomplishing set goals.
Shriner's Hospital and GREAT have formed a partnership to offer therapeutic horseback riding to children and teens that are inpatients at the hospital. The Shriner's licensed therapists and child life specialists accompany the patients. There are two 10-week sessions (spring and fall).
For more information about the GREAT contact Caroline Hendix at (318) 938-9166.
Camp VictoryTwo week-long sessions held in the beginning of summer that include children with disabilities and their typically developing peers. Camping experiences include horseback riding, sports, hiking, fishing, arts and crafts, cookouts, science and nature studies.