The Horse Project: Freedom for the Blind
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - At The Horse Project in Santa Barbara, rescued horses are not just rehabilitated; they’re helping people heal.
The program includes participants who are blind, allowing them to connect with these animals through trust, touch, and movement.
Participants like Daniel Broz and Kimberly Ames have found a unique way to bond with the horses. As Broz shares, "I'm 99.9% sure she knows I'm blind, even though we obviously can't communicate via language." For Broz and Ames, movement, rhythm, and trust with the horses become a language all their own.
The Horse Project not only retrains and rehomes abandoned and abused horses but also helps individuals in its "Better with Horses" program, which includes activities like blind fitness. Participants learn horse care, how to navigate obstacles, and develop life-changing skills such as positive self-talk, regulation, and self-coaching.
Kimberly Ames describes her connection: "Most people are looking at the beauty and the grace of the animal. Well, I'm looking at it too, but I'm doing it by touch, smell, and the whole experience. I get a full picture more than just seeing colors and shapes."
For Broz, the tactile experience with horses has been life-changing, "I can get around without using my cane, which is insane to me. I learned that horses are unbelievably healing."
Before joining The Horse Project, both Broz and Ames felt reclusive, anxious, and depressed. The confidence and emotional strength gained from working with horses has allowed them to succeed in other areas of life.
As Broz continues his journey, he notes the calm that being with his horse brings to his mental health. Ames, having already run a 5K, reflects on how far she has come, saying, "Now it's putting me in fourth gear, and I’ve still got fifth to go.
The Horse Project has different experiences for anyone wanting to learn and give back in some way. From volunteer work, events, donations, and more.
For more information, you can head on over to their official website.
