Women With Hope

You never know where it is you'll meet that one friend that you can rely on for anything.  It may be in school, work, or at a social gathering.  Or it may be in a barn....

ASPIRE Therapeutic Riding Program in Waterloo has traditionally served primarily children with mental, physical, and emotional disabilities.  Now, however, ASPIRE is branching out.  This spring Marilyn Moore, the Executive Director of ASPIRE, began a 8 week equine therapy program called "Women of Hope" specifically for women dealing with the effects of abuse.

Friendships first begin with spending time getting to know one another, and so did the women's relationships with the horses.  Through using their horses as canvases, these women artistically shared their life stories and learned about the life stories of their classmates, both human and equine.  They were told that they could now be whoever they want to be; the horses didn't care who they had been in the past or what others thought of them.  The horses were friends that were always there and always accepting.

Recovering from trauma is never easy, and at times the horses brought out the women's vulnerabilities .  They felt scared to take the next step, but just like when moving to the next jump height, fear to take the next step meant that growth was happening.  The weekly sessions helped the women learn to once again trust others and accept themselves, and one woman said it was the most peaceful experience she has ever had.

The class will begin again this fall.   If you or anyone you know is interested, contact ASPIRE at 319-296-0964.

Thanks so much.  Rachel Tish, ASPIRE Intern