Great and Small

The Patrick Shifflett Foundation has chosen to support Great and Small as helping children and adults with disabilities was dear to Patrick’s heart
Bonding with a horse can be a life-changing experience, particularly for people with special needs. Great and Small offers equine-assisted activities and therapies – from individualized riding lessons to summer day camps – to help children and adults with disabilities improve their health and reach their potential. Through therapeutic riding, individuals with special needs (autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy) learn horsemanship, while also working toward personal goals in areas like balance, strength, and social skills. During hippo therapy sessions, licensed therapists facilitate interactions with the horses that help clients improve speech, language, and cognition. And in the serene farm environment, mental health clients work with a counselor – and equine friends – to learn how to cope with trauma and conflict. Riders are encouraged to pitch in, building independence as they help care for these magnificent creatures that empower and befriend people of all abilities. You can support a transformational ride.