Special Needs Children Find Their Voices at Horse Riding Program

A developmentally delayed child is now answering phones and assisting at a local fish fry. A child with Cerebral Palsy, who is confined to a wheel chair, proudly carries her purse that contains all her Olympic medals inside. A Downs syndrome child, who was non-verbal, spoke for the first time. He gave the horse a command.

These scenarios are just a few examples of the benefits that special needs children reap from participating in therapeutic horseback riding.

Five years ago, Channahon resident, Kris Mondrella established Sunrise Center North Therapeutic Riding Program in Coal City and made this all possible. 

“Individuals with special needs have a very limited list of activities that they can participate in,” Mondrella said. “The fact that they are on horse is so fun for them. They form a bond with the horse. It’s a sense of independence and accomplishment.”

Mondrella said parents are the biggest advocates of the program.

“My daughter Amy has been riding for five years and she loves going to the Special Olympics to compete because it gives her a chance to win at something,” said resident Nancy Geldean. “The riding has helped build her core muscles, strengthen her legs and has given her confidence.”

Amy, who has mild CP, is a student at Channahon Junior High School and is also a member of the school’s cross country team.

Shorewood resident Chris Kirsch was elated when she found Sunrise. 

“It’s an excellent program and I’m so glad we found it,” said Kirsch, echoing Mondrella’s comments that it is a challenge to find programs for children, especially younger ones.

Kirsch’s daughter Rikki, age 17, has been riding since she was 5 years old. Rikki has developmental delays and has been with Sunrise since last June. She has a passion for horses and wanted to train with Sunrise so she could compete in the Special Olympics. 

“They (Sunrise) made her feel welcome,” Kirsch said. “They (Sunrise) made her feel important and be happy to be part of a team.”

The organization is hosting its 5th Annual Barn Dance and Silent Auction from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., April 2. The event will take place at the Elk’s Lodge, 250 SE Frontage Rd. in Joliet

The goal this year is to raise enough money to expand its therapeutic horseback riding sessions to include disabled veterans and senior citizens.

Last year the silent auction raised about $12,000 that went directly back to the program. Portion of the funds assisted in food and veterinarian care for the horses and low costs for lessons.

Mondrella, who is a certified instructor of the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association and owner of Sunrise, said she would like to begin the program for disabled veterans and a riding sessions for seniors this summer. Lessons are held at Smoky Hill Farms in Coal City.

“Horses for Heros will help disabled veterans who are suffering post traumatic brain injury and post traumatic stress,” Mondrella said. “The senior program will offer seniors an opportunity to ride and reap the benefits of improved digestion, circulation, balance and cognitive functions,” she said.

Sunrise also provides horseback riding lessons and equine assisted activities to children and adults with special needs, including those with autism, cerebral palsy, delayed development, Asperger’s, Down syndrome and spina bifida. Some riders also participate in the Special Olympic Games.

Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased by contacting Mondrella at 815-467-9332. Tickets can also be bought at the event for $30 per person. Admission includes dinner and dancing. Attire is causal. Country-Western wear, such as jeans, boots and cowboy hats is encouraged.