Dave and Kay Langenhorst had an idea that their horses could help children and adults with disabilities. They were right. Since opening the Chakota Therapeutic Riding Center (Chakota TRC) in 2008, the center is proving to be a valuable resource.
Chakota TRC offers therapeutic horseback riding, which has been shown through studies to improve the quality of life and wellbeing of those with disabilities. Riders at the center are paired with one of eight horses and taught basic horsemanship skills. This interaction and process helps stimulate physical, mental and emotional growth. Equally important, the training gives riders a sense of freedom from impairment and an understanding that they are capable of doing something special.
Based in Germantown, Illinois, Chakota TRC is the only facility offering these services within an 80-mile radius. The non-profit organization depends on fundraisers, contributions, grants and in-kind donations, as well as a valuable team of volunteers. To do this work, the staff has undergone extensive training. The center has also participated in national conferences for the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) and hope to become a certified PATH center in the future.
With therapeutic interactions with horses, the Langenhorst’s are living their dream, while helping those with disabilities to dream big too.
Chakota Therapeutic Riding Center
6248 Wesclin Road, Germantown, IL
334-0885
Neighbors helping neighbors – it’s just what we do here in Clinton County!