The Creston Valley Society for Therapeutic Horsemanship is dedicated to promoting health and well-being through mounted and unmounted therapeutic equine-assisted activities. This non-profit organization caters to individuals diagnosed with physical and mental health conditions such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, sensory processing disorder, or learning disabilities. As a Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA) accredited centre, the Creston Valley Society for Therapeutic Horsemanship offers riding lessons to people of all ages and abilities who can benefit from therapeutic riding.
Located at 851 Erickson St. , the facility features a small fenced riding ring for safe riding lessons, a 100 × 200 fenced riding arena, a covered tack up area, fenced paddocks for the horses, and access to trail riding through orchards and around the Spectrum Farms property. The therapeutic riding program at CVSTH is designed to help individuals with mental, emotional, and physical disabilities gain a host of benefits while learning riding and horsemanship skills. Participants may engage in the program for rehabilitation, skill development, recreation, and even competitive purposes.
The sessions at Creston Valley Society for Therapeutic Horsemanship are conducted during an 8 week spring session, two 4 week summer sessions, and an 8 week fall session. The dedicated team of instructors includes Christine Ross, Head Instructor and CanTRA Coach, and Michelle Whiteaway, CanTRA Intermediate Instructor. The centre is supported by a team of volunteers who play a crucial role in facilitating the therapeutic activities and lessons.
The society's horses, which play a vital role in the therapeutic riding program, are sponsored by local businesses and organizations. These horses include Allie, sponsored by Wloka Farms Fruit Stand; Beau; Emma, sponsored by the WynnWood Employee Committee; Cupcake, sponsored by Trinity Treasures Thrift Store Volunteers; Kit; Magnum, sponsored by Creston Valley Rotary Club; Rhea, sponsored by Pauls' Superette Sales Ltd. Solar; and Tahala, sponsored by the BC Therapeutic Riding Association.
The society is governed by a Board of Directors, including Rita Scott as Chair, Casey Holden as Vice Chair, Melissa Jackson as Secretary, and Charlie Moon as Treasurer. The Creston Valley Society for Therapeutic Horsemanship is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can benefit from the therapeutic power of horses.