"Happy Trails" has wonderful, gentle horses, caring and devoted personnel, and volunteers that deserve an entire letter to themselves.
I am one of the recipients of this amazing place, having received a spinal cord injury in an accident four years ago. I began riding at Happy Trails in March of this year, and I cannot describe how much a horse helps a person physically and psychologically in their rehabilitation.
Happy Trails has been building to its current phase as its growth is provided by different fundraisers and donations, and I would highly recommend finding out the class schedules and going to watch the smiles and benefits it brings.
Just recently, local volunteers, provided a "sensory trail" that involved thousands of dollars in donated material and many, many volunteer hours.
This trail is one of the most fabulous "garden"-type settings you will find anywhere. A waterfall, hundreds of trees and plants of every kind, and obstacles necessary for this type of trail, it is something you would have to see in person to appreciate the dedication that went into the design, and ultimately the man hours and funds to complete this amazing task.
The next phase is to cover the arena. This is extremely important, because of the possibility of overheating the volunteers, riders, teachers, and for the well-being of the horses.
Donations for this arena to be covered would be greatly appreciated, and I can't think of a more deserving organization. For information, call 688-8685, or donate to Happy Trails, P.O. Box 572, Visalia, CA 93279.
I would love for anyone reading this to see how they might be able to help financially, I hope you go visit, meet the beautiful horses and learn more about this therapeutic riding program.
JANA BALL
Visalia