Term 4, 2023

From the President

Kia ora Friends of Christchurch Riding for the Disabled,

As we approach the end of this year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we've had throughout 2023. While Christchurch has witnessed its fair share of unpredictable weather, here at RDA, we have persevered with unwavering determination. Our volunteers, staff, and horses have all come together to ensure that we continue delivering nearly all our usual sessions.

It's been a year of change and growth for us. We've welcomed new horses into our RDA family, while some of our beloved old horses have gracefully retired to their forever homes. These horses have been the backbone of our organization, and their service will always be remembered. We have had enthusiastic new staff join our great team and some past staff return, they just couldn’t keep away.

During our sessions, we've taken time to celebrate some significant milestones. Our horses have had their birthdays marked with the joy of a special cake, and we had the immense pleasure of commemorating our 50th Anniversary. It's incredible to think about the thousands of lives we've touched and transformed during this journey.

This year, we were fortunate to receive support from corporate volunteers who not only dedicated their time but also become new friends of Christchurch Riding for The Disabled. We believe in the power of community and these partnerships strengthen our ability to create positive change.

One of the highlights of this year has been our special visits from members of the retired community. They joined us for tea, cake, and cherished moments with our ponies, all thanks to the support of their retirement homes. It's heartwarming to see how our riders and horses bring joy to those who visit us.

A cherished addition to our calendar has been "Grandparents Day," where the families of our riders were given an opportunity to watch, reflect, and truly understand the remarkable achievements our riders make during their time with us. This day was a reminder of the transformative power of our work.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has played a role in ensuring the continued success of Christchurch RDA. To our sponsors, staff, volunteers, and committee members, you are the driving force behind our mission. Your dedication and support have made all the difference in the lives of our riders.

As we approach Christmas and the New Year, I wish you all a season filled with warmth, joy, and the love of family and friends. May you have a safe and healthy holiday season, and we look forward to reconnecting with everyone in 2024.

With deep appreciation and warmest wishes. Hari Kirihimete.

Pippa Parker

President

Christchurch Riding for the Disabled

Rider's Rep Update

Every time I walk in the door I am blown away by the exceptional team of coaches and volunteers that are quietly going about their work. Passionate generous people giving freely of their time to help riders become the best people they can be. And when I look at the smiles and concentration on the riders’ faces, I can see that they are doing a mighty fine job.

Over the last 18 months I have enjoyed attending sessions and meeting many riders and their support crews. My job as Riders Rep is to just chat with anyone in the arena - coaches, riders, support people and office staff to ensure everyone is happy and the program is running well for all our riders. So far, fingers and toes crossed, I have not come across any unhappy people.

Chatting informally is a great way to brainstorm and put new ideas forward and I am delighted to say following one such chat, something new is being put into place. While coaches and volunteers are happy to answer questions and chat, not all families get the time or opportunity to be able to do this (for example riders that come with school groups or caregivers). So, feedback on how your rider has done isn’t always available.

Coaches currently fill out a report called “Finishing Rider Assessment” which includes headings such as Mounting, Dismounting, Precautions/Alerts, Short Term Goals, Long Term Goals, Achievements. With some brainstorming and a desire to avoid more paperwork for the team, going forward this report will be copied and given to the rider - a bit like a report card so that you can take it away to show teachers, therapists, family, and friends exactly what has been happening for the last 12 months.

I would like to encourage you to feel free to reach out to me if you have any great ideas, questions, or concerns about what is happening in your riders RDA sessions. Discretion and confidentiality are assured - remember if you have a concern then there is every chance someone else does too and when you have a child with a few challenges in life, the parent or guardian is the best advocate. You can reach me at eliric@xtra.co.nz or 0272376974.

Have a happy and healthy holiday season and I look forward to seeing you all again soon.

Merry Christmas!

Elizabeth Smith

Riders Representative

Thank you so much. Ben has grown in so many areas in one year. He has learned to communicate with people he does not know in a safe environment. He has learned to trust adults and horses. He enjoys learning about the horses and the types, colours (e.g. there is not a white horse). He has loved meeting new friends Mitchell and Braxton. The best thing for me is Ben has found a community who get him and understands him.

Thank you for this wonderful opportunity that brings so much joy!

From Sharon and Ben

Upcoming Dates

January

22 Office re-opens

February

1 Reconnect/refresh workshop for volunteers and horses 9am-2pm

5 Term 1 starts

6 Waitangi Day CLOSED

13 New volunteers induction 1-3pm

16-22 Bloodstock Sales CLOSED

March

29 Good Friday CLOSED

April

1 Easter Monday CLOSED

2 Easter Tuesday CLOSED

12 Term 1 ends

13 Special Olympics Ribbon Day

25 ANZAC Day

29 Term 2 starts

Thank you for the all the joy, love and support your team and four footed friends have placed in my daughters life. Her school and your school have changed her life for the better and given her much better posture and great confidence.

Thankyou from a very grateful mum.

Wanted! Volunteer Assistants for Horses and Riders

If you enjoy working within a dedicated and enthusiastic team, alongside horses, and people with diverse abilities, Christchurch Riding for the Disabled is the place to be.

Our coaches depend on volunteers to lead horses and work with riders. Training is given for volunteers to feel confident and safe.

We hold riding sessions 9:00am - 2:30pm Monday to Friday during school terms.

Next induction workshop for new volunteers is 13 February, 1-3pm

If you can spare one day a week to assist our wonderful coaches in their efforts to give our riders the benefit of a therapeutic riding session we would be most grateful.

Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator Annette

phone 021 174 4096 or email: volunteers@chchrda.org.nz

To find out more about Volunteering with CRDA, click the button below. Thanks!

Volunteer