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About PRDA

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Pacific Riding for Developing Abilities was established in 1973 to provide therapeutic horseback riding to individuals with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities. For over 37 years, we've been giving youth and adults with varying  disabilities the chance to bond with horses, make lasting friendships, have fun, and receive therapy at the same time. PRDA provides a caring and welcoming environment, and we pride ourselves on being a safe place for people to experience new things. We want our riders to feel like they can challenge themselves knowing that there is a strong support system in place for them should they require help.

Equine assisted therapy has long been recognized as an excellent means of providing physical, psychological, social and recreational benefits to children and adults with disabilities. Balance and coordination, increased confidence, group activity and excitement of movement "free of any mechanical aids" are some of the many benefits.

Pacific Riding for Developing Abilities is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people with a wide range of disabilities. PRDA is recognized as a leader in providing equine assisted therapeutic activities and educational opportunities in an environment that is safe, fun and effective.

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History

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In January of 1973, PRDA was incorporated under the Society Act, an initiative of the G.F. Strong Rehabilitation Centre and the Southlands Riding Club of Vancouver.  The first programs were held at SRC, and our Vancouver Branch continues to operate from SRC.  Shortly after, a branch began operating in Langley, and land was very generously willed to us by Phae Collins.  The head office continues to operate in Langley, and each year we have the Phae Collins Memorial Horse Show - is a very popular annual event at PRDA, drawing riders and families from other therapeutic riding facilities. Our current facility, surrounded by Campbell Valley Regional Park, has been home to the PRDA since May 1998. In 2002, we completed a second covered arena, which has allowed us to increase our rider capacity.  We run three sessions per year, accommodating over 100 riders per session. PRDA also hosts many special events, such as the Phae Colllins Memorial Horse Show, clinics, horse shows, summer camps, and day camps.

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Mission and Objectives

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Mission

Through equestrian activity and with the involvement of the community, we enhance the quality of life for individuals with a wide range of challenges.

Objectives

The PRDA objectives as stated under the constitution are:

• to provide horses, ponies and riding facilities for children and adults with disabilities, subject to the consent of their medical advisor, in order to promote their physical, psychological and social well-being;
  
  
• to enlist the support and cooperation of riding groups and societies throughout British Columbia;
  
  
• to enlist the practical support of the general public by providing them with relevant information, films, lectures to encourage them to volunteer their services;
  
  
• to solicit, receive and accept funds by gift, bequest or otherwise and apply these funds to the functioning of the Society;
  
  
• to endeavor to support financially and practically any new member groups forming in the Province of British Columbia.

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The PRDA Team

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Head Office Staff

Program Manager - Michelle Meacher

Session Coordinator - Alex, Heather Seigman (on leave)

Volunteer Coordinators - Bill Hendricks, Judi Elgert

Grounds and Facilities - Malcolm Ward

Visit these web sites for more information on Therapeutic Riding

Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA):
www.cantra.ca
North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA)

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