STAMFORD – For nearly 30 years, Pegasus Therapeutic Riding (founded at the Ox Ridge Hunt Club in Darien back in 1975) has been bringing the benefits and joys of horseback riding to the disabled and handicapped community and now serves some 200 students at nine different locations through Fairfield and Westchester counties.

And now Pegasus is asking for help.

A new fundraiser – featuring a 36-month/12,000-mile per year lease on a 2004 Volvo XC90 from Connecticut’s Own Volvo in Milford – is being offered. Tickets are going for $50 each (only 2,000 tickets will be sold) and the winner will be picked on May 16 and announced at the annual Pegasus Horse Show (winner need not be present).

All proceeds will benefit Pegasus.

In the Pegasus program, professional physical therapists and instructors provide riding therapy to students with such physical and mental disabilities as cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, blindness, and Downs Syndrome, as well as learning and other developmental challenges.

Students range in age from three to 73. Supporting the work is a large contingent of volunteers; some trained as ‘sidewalkers’ and others trained as horse leaders and tack assistants. Even the horses are specially trained for working with disabled and handicapped riders.

For further information on raffle tickets, contact Sandra, Ann or Clea in the Pegasus office at 1-203-356-9504. Sales will be limited to licensed drivers, 18 years of age or older, with approved credit.

A Call For Volunteers

Pegasus Therapeutic Riding, Inc. programs are expanding and there is a need for more volunteers.

Anyone who loves children and horses, this is a wonderful opportunity to assist a worthwhile, rewarding cause. Pegasus volunteers will be trained as ‘sidewalkers’ and horse leaders and work under the direction of certified instructors and therapists. Classes are held throughout the week and on Saturdays.

Volunteers are also appreciated for in-house mailings and special events.

For more information, please contact the Pegasus Volunteer Coordinator Cindy Hurvitz in the Stamford administrative office at 203-356-9504.