‘We couldn’t do it without them’: Camp Able in need of volunteers for equine therapy

BUFFALO GAP, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) — Due to an increase in interest, Camp Able in Buffalo Gap is looking for volunteers to help with its therapy horse riding program.

Camp Able is a non-profit organization in Buffalo Gap that specializes in horse riding therapy for children with mental and physical disabilities. This year, the camp’s leadership has noticed an increase in the number of people looking to use its services. The camp’s program director, Catherine Allen, attributes part of its popularity growth to the unique techniques it uses, which are customized for each participant’s benefit.

“We can relate things back to everyday life. We’re learning how to tailor a horseback riding lesson to each individual based on their disability,” Allen explained.

Kelsy Hicks is the Equine Manager and Therapeutic Riding Instructor at Camp Able. While working with one of her star students, Maelei, who has been diagnosed with ADHD, she emphasizes how their lessons shift the focus away from participants’ disabilities.

“If you can control a 1100-pound animal with your hands and feet, what else can you do? We’ve worked on confidence, on when something may not go our way, being able to brush it off and just try again. Because that’s how life works, and that’s a huge skill for her to be able to learn,” Hicks shared.

Hicks went on to explain how volunteers are a vital component for not only for their organization, but more importantly, for the kids.

“That kid really makes a bond with their volunteer. They rely on you, your support, you know, first emergency if something were to happen. They really trust, and it’s so special. We really couldn’t do it without them,” Hicks added.

Camp Able says that volunteers with experience handling horses are a plus, but not necessary. If you would like to sign up to be a volunteer for Camp Able, you can email a request to inf0@camp-able.org or call Camp Able at (325) 572-4145.