Riding for the Disabled to thrive from GWYLF grant

A $10,000 grant from Give Where You Live Foundation (GWYLF) will enable Riding for the Disabled Barwon to provide more riding lessons to young people within the community.

Riding for the Disabled Barwon were one of 15 local community organisations who received funding through the second round of the GWYLF Survive and Thrive grants.

The grant will help the organisation to support more children with a disability to experience the enjoyment, challenge and achievement that comes with horse riding.

Give Where You Live Foundation CEO, Bill Mithen said the organisation were very proud to be providing Riding for the Disabled Barwon with the $10,000 grant.

“As the cost of living continues to increase, we know those families who care for a child with a disability are under increased financial pressure, with many finding it challenging to fund the necessary support for their children.

“This funding will support young people with a disability or who are experiencing social isolation and could not otherwise afford to access riding lessons.”

Wallington Primary School Integration Aid, Rebecca Lapidus supports students at the school to access fortnightly riding lessons through Riding for the Disabled Barwon.

She said the program has had incredible benefits for students taking part.

“We see so much growth and so much happiness in the students.

“Many of the students were initially very scared of getting on the horses, but over the past years we have seen a growth in all of them.

“They have increased confidence, language skills, they are able to discuss what they do with their parents and teachers.

“It brings such a sense of community to them as well.”

As a platinum partner of the GWYLF, the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) also recently visited Riding for the Disabled and expressed how proud they were to be supporting important initiatives like this one in the community.

“Being able to experience a sense of achievement and try new things is an important part of everyone’s life, which includes people with a disability,” TAC CEO Joe Calafiore said.

“As a recipient of the 2023 Survive and Thrive Grants, we hope this program can continue to help children in the community lead fulfilling and joyful lives.”

For more about Riding for the Disabled Barwon, head to www.rdav.asn.au/centre/barwon/