How did HorseFriends get started?
Seeing the need for therapeutic riding to be combined with emotional
and spiritual growth, Emilie Storch sought out other women with a
similar vision. The book
Hope Rising inspired the women that joined
together to begin something in NC that would be from a Christian
perspective. Because the group that formed had an experienced horseback
riding instructor, a pastor and a psychologist, it seemed that all three
areas combined would be a very effective strategy to help those at risk.
In February, 2005, the nonprofit group HorseFriends began.
 What does HorseFriends do?
HorseFriends offers physical, emotional and spiritual healing in a
support group setting. Our participants interact with horses utilizing
both riding and non-riding activities.
 What do you mean by
"spiritual"?
We at HorseFriends know that God put horses on this earth for many
reasons, one of which is to help people. The horses and tranquil
surroundings help to break down barriers, which increases spiritual
awareness. True spiritual healing can only happen through a
relationship with His son, Jesus Christ. We endeavor to help others
understand the love that God has specifically for them.
Who leads your "support groups?"
Dr. Emilie Storch, Ph.D., who started riding horses at a young age,
is a licensed psychologist and has been practicing for over 20 years.
She develops specific curriculum to meet the needs of each participant
group.
 What groups do you work with?
We work with adults and children with developmental disabilities, individuals with
multiple sclerosis, foster children, people overcoming drug
addictions, children with autism and their families, and women released from prison.
Where does HorseFriends take place?
We have two locations in the Northwest Greensboro area:
- Restoration Farm in Greensboro, NC
- Joyfield Farm in Oak Ridge, NC
Who is on your Board?
Our Board consists of caring individuals, all of whom have had
experience with horses. All Board members have a heart's desire to see
people gain a better quality of life through horses and
through the love of Jesus Christ. For more information, please click on
the Board of Directors link.
 Where do your horses come from?
We use horses that have been donated to HorseFriends, as well as
horses that are owned by individuals. The horses must meet strict
requirements before they are allowed to participate in our programs. We
appreciate the caring individuals who have so generously donated their
horses for use in our programs.
Who is eligible to volunteer with
HorseFriends?
HorseFriends will gladly consider any individual who is over the age
of 13 if they wish to work directly with the horses. We will find a
"job" for anyone younger if they want to help! HorseFriends conducts
regular training sessions for eligible volunteers who wish to help with
the horses and the participants.
Do you charge any fee for your services?
No fees are charged. All our staff operates on a volunteer basis, and
all other operating expenses are financed by charitable donations.
How can I contribute if I cannot volunteer?
We appreciate all donations to help pay for operating costs.
Please see our Donations page for more
information. |
