Naples
Equestrian Challenge, Inc. (NEC) is a
non-profit 501(c)3 organization offering therapeutic riding for Collier
County, Florida adults and children with disabilities and is affiliated with
NARHA
(North American Riding for the Handicapped Association).
Our Mission is to improve the lives of these
individuals through the use of equine-related therapeutic activities.
At NEC, we offer activities to address the
physical, mental, and social challenges our riders face. Our riders come to
us with disabilities such as Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Stroke, Autism,
Amputations, Spina Bifida, Spinal Cord injuries, Multiple Sclerosis and a
range of emotional, learning and developmental disabilities.
For individuals with impaired mobility,
horseback riding gently and rhythmically moves their bodies in a
three-dimensional motion, simulating the natural walking gait of humans. In
addition to the physical benefits of riding a horse, our lessons are
designed to help riders mentally focus to practice using their concentration
in ways that very often do not come naturally to them. And, because our
horses are the partners providing the opportunity to experience the benefits
of riding, we also emphasize horsemanship skills with every student.
Equine related therapeutic activities offer
marvelous benefits … it relaxes muscles, increases joint mobility,
strengthens and improves posture, balance and coordination. It also
develops self-confidence, concentration and self-discipline... and horses
provide a unique source of love and reassurance for our special students!