Hippotherapy Business Grant For Not Legally Disabled Determined Young Woman

by Jessica
(Redding, California, USA)

I am 18 years old and trying to start a hippotherapy program and facility. I was raised on a ranch and have seen the miracles horses can perform.

I have graduated from high school and have completed some college. I am currently living with my fiancé and our 8-month-old puppy.

The only technical disability I have is chronic clinical depression, passed to me genetically. I am not on any medicine for it because I believe God made me this way for a reason.

Although my above-mentioned puppy is legally my companion animal, I am not looking for grants because I am disabled. I am applying to help the disabled people in my area and in my life.

Times are hard right now. I am only working part-time and am lucky to get the rent paid, but I wouldn't trade a single day of my life for an easier one.

I love working hard and feeling like I make a difference. There is always something that I don't have enough money for, whether it's the oil leak in my jeep, the coffee on my way to work, or a new jacket because mine is torn.

Right now, I am a server at a retirement community. It is only about six hours a week, at minimum wage, but it is rewarding and I love it.

I also work a day or two a week for a local attorney. I also love this job. It is interesting and I learn something new every time I work.

I always have an eye open for another job, for two reasons, first because I would like to feel more financially secure, and second because I know I need to save up for my dream.

I am not sure what I am looking for, I know there are grants available to help start a program for mentally or physically challenged children and/or adults. I just don't know how to apply for or get them.


What I do know, is that this is my dream and it will help so many people. Hippotherapy has been proven to help people walk, even people who have been told by doctors that they will never walk again.

It helps children with mental disabilities learn to work with others and trust people. I know that this dream of mine should not be forgotten just because of money.

I have always been an animal person, I love the way they will always love me and be happy to see me, no mater what I look or smell like.

Horses are amazing creatures. They can be tough as nails, or gentle giants. I have seen horses fight till the end to protect the ones they love, as well as gently carry a small child.

When riding a horse, the movement of our hips and muscles mimics that of when we walk. This then builds up the muscles needed to walk.

Children with cerebral palsy or multiple sclerosis, who were told they would never walk, have walked.

Children with autism or Down syndrome, who were too afraid to play with other children, have laughed and played.

Hippotherapy is an amazing thing. It truly is miraculous. As for marketing, my fiancé works in a day program for mentally challenged adults.

I will be able to talk to all staff at this program, plus house staff for all of the clients. If that doesn't get my name out, there is always the Internet and television, as well as fundraisers and other community events.

I plan on running this program on a personal ranch, so as far as management, I will always remain in control and make sure things run as smoothly as they can.

I want this more than anything, and I'm sure so do many children who are stuck in a wheelchair or afraid to live and be happy.

I just need some help getting started.

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