The program, developed by Tiffany Oreglia, is designed help youth build self esteem, family values, hard work, and dedication. The program also provides gang intervention and educational assistance, teaching leadership skills, safe after-school and weekend activities. The program operates at the Craigmont Equestrian Center, commonly known as Barbara Worth.
And it produces results. The Sacramento Bee interviewed various participants yesterday. Two years ago, 12-year-old Rudy McGaugh was hesitant to ride, but is now an exceptional rider with Tupac, a black Arabian gelding. Rudy helped nurse Tupac back to health after a problem with the horse’s teeth. Karena Hershman, 13, practically visits daily and aspires to go to UC Davis and become a veterinarian.
Yet all of this could be taken away; the program is funded by what Oreglia earns from training and boarding horses, which is struggling financially. Apparently, it takes a minimum of $250 per month to care of just one horse.
Horses, Hope & Healing is asking for sponsorships of any amount to help keep the program going and keep kids off the street and away from drugs and gangs. Their staff is comprised of volunteers, so all donation money goes into the program.
You can also check out Horses, Hope & Healing at their Open House event this Saturday, August 15, from 10am – 3pm at 3174 Craigmont St, Sacramento, CA, 95821.
The Sacramento Horsemen’s Association will also be holding a trail ride on August 23 to raise funds for Horses, Hope & Healing.
For more information about the program, contact Ms. Oreglia at toreglia@horseshopehealing.com.
