In May this year (2022) EBOP RDA is celebrating fifty years of commitment to 'high developmental needs' children and adults in the communities of the Eastern Bay, who have had the benefit of weekly sessions with volunteers, to improve their independence, balance and social connection with others. 

Riding for the Disabled, as it is known throughout Aotearoa receives NO government funding and relies very much on fundraising, and the generosity of the local community to ensure they are able to provide a high level of service to their riders.  Their core business is to provide therapeutic riding sessions for people with disabilities. At any given time there could be over 80 riders attending their sessions. Ages range from 5 to 60 + years. 

For the young of age with a physical disability, this not only means physical therapy appropriate to their condition, but also the opportunity to partake of an activity that crosses physical barriers and gives them a mobility more in keeping with children of their own age group. 

Children with a non-physical disability, such as Autistic Spectrum Disorder also benefit from the physcial aspects of riding and for them the relationship to the horse comes to the fore. 

Covid-19 has really disrupted the ability for EBoP RDA to deliver their programmes consistently over the past two years, and has meant horses being cared for away from the home base in Awatapu by volunteers. The pandemic has also meant a lack of connection for riders who desperately need developmental assistance. 

Thanks to the foresight of a long time volunteer with EBoP RDA, an endowment fund has been seeded to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the organisation. The community is encouraged to add to this fund, in order for this facility to remain viable and sustainable for the next fifty years, continuing to offer opportunities for those who need help. 

You can donate now: Check out  EBoP RDA Fund on the Funds page of our website for details. 

With thanks to Claire House Photography and EBoP RDA for the images in this article.