WATERLOO (KWWL) -
Last year, ASPIRE Therapeutic Riding Program in Waterloo served more than one thousand people. Primary clients of ASPIRE are individuals with disabilities, who can use horseback riding to benefit their quality of life.
"I've seen kids afraid of horses, and the minute they get around them their whole personality changes and they smile and they laugh. It's so amazing to watch the changes," said Marilyn Moore with ASPIRE.
Classes take place each Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Someone leads the horse while a teacher gives the rider instructions.
Marilyn Moore quit her job to start ASPIRE after first volunteering at another agency with horses.
"And I thought what an amazing thing this is doing for these kids. So I decided we should start our own non profit," said Moore.
ASPIRE is located on Kimball Avenue in Waterloo and has 11 horses.
It continues to expand in terms of programming, including summer outreach programs, programs for at-risk youth and a new class for abused women.
Marilyn Moore encourages people to visit ASPIRE for themselves to learn more about the programs and to think about volunteering for the organization, which has a motto of love, hope and believe.
"Love unconditionally, hope for the future and believe in oneself," said Moore.
You can help support the programs offered by ASPIRE by attending Dances with Horses.
The horse show and silent auction is at McElroy Auditorium on the National Cattle Congress grounds in Waterloo.
The show starts at 7 p.m. and features nationally known entertainers related to horses.
Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door.
For more information, call 319-296-0964 or click here.
