HOULTON, Maine — A non-profit organization formed by a network of volunteers to provide equine-assisted learning programs has received a significant grant to develop a therapy program.
Nancy Ketch, Houlton’s economic and community development director, said on Wednesday that the Maine Community Development Block Grant program awarded $50,000 to Manes and Tails of Houlton to fund the project.
The funding will support the expansion of equine assisted learning and therapy programs targeting youth from low to moderate income families. Ketch said that the next step involves completing a checklist of items to accomplish and then having an advisory group oversee and guide the CDBG projects through the planning and development phase.
The committee already has been organized and includes Ketch, Jon McLaughlin, Charlene Wolhaupter, Gerard York Jr, and Jessica York, vice president of Manes and Tails.
“This is federal money, so we have to follow these guidelines,” Ketch said Wednesday.
In May, Manes and Tails moved into its new home at the former Shiretown Stables at 560 North Street, and officials from the organization joined with volunteers this summer to renovate the infrastructure.
York said the grant will enable the organization to expand scholarship opportunities so that more children can take part in the equine therapy program.
Manes and Tails spent the summer offering pony camps to local children, teaching them basic grooming skills with a goal of learning how to ride. The group also has offered private lessons, therapeutic sessions and horse agility training.
In September, Manes and Tails started its “Farm Life” program, which is open to all Houlton and Hodgdon students each day that school is in session. The program features a variety of equine and student support services including introducing youngsters to the skills of crafting and repairing equipment, and farm management.
York said that children also will learn how to interact with horses and build relationships while creating boundaries and raising their confidence levels. They will work on their focus, using their voices and stepping up as leaders, she said. At the same time, Manes and Tails will offer tutoring services at no extra cost, along with art lessons, goat milking, soap making, music lessons and other activities.
For more information, visit Manes and Tails on Facebook.
