Riding For The Disabled Inc St Helens is an Australian nonprofit organisation dedicated to providing equine-assisted programs that support individuals with disabilities. The organisation operates in St Helens, Tasmania, and focuses on addressing the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of participants through therapeutic horse riding activities[2][3].

Mission and Activities

The core mission of Riding For The Disabled Inc St Helens is to offer accessible horse-related activities that promote health, well-being, and personal development for people living with disabilities. These programs are designed to help participants improve their physical coordination, confidence, and emotional resilience in a safe and supportive environment[2].

Typical activities include adult riding days and open group sessions that encourage inclusivity and community participation. Both experienced riders and beginners are welcome, and the organisation emphasizes volunteer involvement to assist with coaching and horse care[3][4].

Community Engagement and Volunteering

Volunteers form the backbone of the organisation, supporting the preparation of horses for lessons and assisting coaches during sessions. All necessary training for volunteers is provided, creating an inclusive atmosphere where community members can contribute to the wellbeing of riders and horses alike[4].

The organisation also fosters community support through programs such as horse sponsorship, where donors can help cover expenses related to horse care, including veterinary services, feed, and maintenance. This model allows supporters to directly impact the success of therapeutic riding and the welfare of the horses involved[5].

Affiliation and Broader Network

Riding For The Disabled Inc St Helens is part of the broader Riding for the Disabled Association Australia (RDAA), a national voluntary nonprofit organisation that provides therapeutic horse-riding opportunities to people with intellectual, physical, sensory, and learning disabilities. RDAA supports its affiliated centres with nationally accredited coach training, volunteer coordination, and partnerships to enhance the quality and reach of services across Australia[1].

Through its integration with the RDAA network, Riding For The Disabled Inc St Helens benefits from shared resources, coaching expertise, and national recognition, strengthening its capacity to deliver effective and impactful equine-assisted therapy programs.

This organisation exemplifies community-driven support for people with disabilities in Tasmania, utilizing the therapeutic power of horses to foster physical and psychological rehabilitation in a nurturing environment.

[1] https://www.rda.org.au [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/423f23ea-38af-e811-a961-000d3ad24182/documents/c8a45aef-50c8-e811-a964-000d3ad244fd [3] https://cotatas.org.au/gd_activities/riding-for-the-disabled-association-tasmania-st-helens/ [4] https://makeadifference.volunteering.nsw.gov.au/volunteering/102931/volunteers-for-riding-for-the-disabled-association-centres-st-helens [5] https://rdanswtalltimbers.org.au/support-a-horse/