The Howards
Tommy and Brenda Howard of Columbus could see how much the spring and fall sessions of Mississippi State University’s 4-H therapeutic riding program helped their daughter, so they made a donation to help make the program a year-round option.
For several years, the Howards’ daughter, Elizabeth, took part in MSU's 4-H TEAM program (Therapeutic Equine Activity Member), which was offered seven weeks each spring and fall at the Mississippi Horse Park. The Howards believe their daughter, who was born with cerebral palsy in 2000, benefited from the program.
“We definitely could see how the riding strengthened her core. It also improved her confidence level,” her father said.
The Howards contributed $300,000 to the TEAM program. Their funding helped establish the Elizabeth A. Howard Therapeutic Activity Center, a covered arena behind the Mossy Oak Mall in West Point. Bryan Farms and Jimmy Bryan donated the land to the Mississippi 4-H Foundation in 2000.
“Therapeutic riding is a specialized equine activity that provides physical, emotional and psychological benefits to people with cognitive and physical disabilities,” said Mary Riley, coordinator for Mississippi States 4-H therapeutic riding program. “Trained instructors provide carefully planned activities developed by a health professional and a certified riding instructor. The horse is used as a treatment tool to help riders achieve their goals.”
Riley said the dedicated facility enables greater access to the program.
“We have more riders from north Mississippi,” she said. “Instead of two seven-week sessions, we will be able to offer as many as four 12-week sessions.”