Therapeutic Riding Program Loses Barn, Equipment in Fire

According to a press release from the Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program, the organization lost its barn and all of their riding equipment in a barn fire Thursday Night. The fire occurred sometime between 9:00 and 10:00 PM. Fortunately, no people or animals were hurt in the fire. The cause is currently unknown, but lessons have been cancelled temporarily.

"Of our 12 horses, Clancy was the only horse in the barn during the fire. Miraculously, he was able to kick out his stall door to escape. Seven other horses were in an adjacent paddock at the time, but were able to break through a gate and into an adjoining field to get away from the intense smoke. We are extremely fortunate that our riders, staff and horses are doing well," Breeana Bornhorst, the Program Director, said.

The NVTRP has been in operation in the Clifton community for 27 years, providing assistance and therapy to over 60 children and adults each week. The organization it nonprofit and relies mainly on donations to provide the horseback riding lessons.

Rhonda VanLowe, NVTRP Chair, Board of Governors, said, "The fire has delivered a big hit to our program, but we are determined to persevere. We are reaching out to the local community to help us get the program up and running again without delay. "We are assessing the situation and may need to find a new location to operate. We will also have to replace all of the tack, equipment, equine medications and feed we lost in the fire. We are asking for the community to help us get back on our feet so that our riders are able to get back on the horses as soon as possible. Anything will help."

Many people swear by the program, such as Tootie Rivera, a parent and board member. "I've seen what a difference this program can make. Since he started riding with the program, my son has gained a better sense of balance, is more confident getting around, and more enthusiastic about being around others," Rivera said. "It would be tragic if our riders were unable to ride. For many of them it's their one opportunity to get out on their own and feel free."

According to NVRTP's website, they are accredited by the American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA). NARHA instructors, along with volunteers, teach the lessons.

NVRTP offers services to people with physical disabilities like cerebral palsy and spina bifida, mental and learning disabilities, vision, speech, or hearing impairments and other disabilities such as autism.

Sources:

http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.
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http://www.nvtrp.org/about.php