VTEA
Valley Therapeutic Equestrian Association (VTEA) is a non-profit, charitable organization. Our center is located at 3330-256th St. Langley, BC. This location conveniently serves clients from Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.
Therapeutic riding is widely accepted as a valuable method of improving the physical and mental well-being of people with special needs. Riding offers exercise, recreation, and a sense of achievement. In addition. riding provides independence from artificial aids such as crutches and wheelchairs allowing access over uneven trails to new sights, sounds and smells.
VTEA started in 1983 with 20 riders using 4 ponies one day per week. Currently they operate 5 days per week with 110 to 175 riders per 8 week session. Sixteen to twenty specially trained horses and ponies are now utilized in this program. Dedicated instructors are examined and certified through the Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association. Many riders require the assistance of 2 to 3 volunteers for each ride; those wonderful volunteers are the backbone of this organization. Volunteers find their reward in the joy that lights up a young rider's face. Tiny miracles are performed daily at this facility and everyone including therapists, instructors and volunteers can be justifiably proud.
Each new rider requires a referral from his or her physician. Following assessment, a program is designed to meet each individual's needs. In addition to our regular therapeutic riding program, VTEA offers "Hippotherapy". This is where an experienced physiotherapist uses the rhythmic swinging motion created by the action of the horse to mobilize the pelvis, to strengthen muscles and improve balance, co-ordination and circulation of a rider with movement disorders.
Disabilities accepted for therapeutic riding include cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, limb absence, scoliosis, spina bifida, epilepsy, brain injury, autism, developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, emotional disturbance, blindness and hearing and speech impediments. Aims of therapeutic riding include balance improvement, coordination development, mobilization of stiff joints, development of weak muscles, prevention of contractures, relaxation of spasticity, development of self-esteem and independence and providing recreation.
The fee charged covers less than a third of the cost of each ride in the therapeutic riding program. The centre relies upon the generosity of service clubs and public donations. In addition, constant fund-raising is required to sustain this invaluable program.
After 24 years, we're moving to a new home. The full array of services we offer the special needs children of our region will be resumed as the dust settles. Our new home is at 3987 - 232 Street, Langley, BC.
Contact Information
Mailing Address
Valley Therapeutic Equestrian Association
PO Box 1324
Station Aldergrove
Langley, BC
V4W 2V1
Telephone: (604) 857 1267
E-mail: paulafarr@shaw.ca