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Have you ever wondered what could be done to help today's children learn values and responsibility? Are you seeking a solution to our school dropout rates and looking for a way to see that our children are successful in their endeavors? In response to such questions, Desert Dove Farm is a new and innovative prevention program developed to provide solutions for our community's at-risk youth. Too many children are truant, joining gangs, involved in drugs, and are not on a path that will lead them to a positive future. By incorporating the theories of Equine Experimental learning and Equine-Assisted psychotherapy, our program will assist Tucson's youth by combining exercises using horses.
If you are a horse owner, you more than likely have developed a strong bond with your horse and can understand the benefits of working with and around him. In order to communicate with your horse, you have learned to read his non-verbal cues and understand what they mean. Whether you are happy, angry, or sad, you know that when you head for the barn, your horse is going to react to your emotions. Through these experiences, you may have learned to recognize your own non-verbal cues and become aware of how they are affecting your horse as well as fellow riders and their mounts.
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during a therapy session, the counselor is able to metaphorically apply the outcomes to everyday interactions that the child has with peers, teachers, and family. Through the positive horse activities and trial-and-error techniques, children learn how to be resilient in today's world. They can learn how to empower themselves, to discover their emotional boundaries, use their time constructively, and to develop positive attitudes.
Desert Dove Farm received its non-profit status in April 2001. The launch for our project is planned for march 2002. We will be accepting participants from area elementary schools and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Tucson. The program is designed to be individualized so that each child receives the necessary attention to address his problems with schoolwork and behavior. Our staff will consist of tutors, horse professionals, and certified therapists who will work together to meet program goals.
The staff and Board of Directors are currently active in raising funds to successfully implement the program. We would like to thank the Tucson Dressage Club for hosting the February 10th show at La Mariposa. All proceeds go directly to our cause. If you would like more information about the Desert Dove program, please call Faye Gandolfi at 296-0320.
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