Rotary Club Estoi Palace International presented Riding for the Disabled in the Algarve with a cheque worth €300 at their annual Gymkhana event on May 31 held at the Pinetrees Riding Centre in Almancil.
The organisation provides riding sessions for physically and mentally challenged children and young adults, in specially designed programmes as a way of improving the lives of those with disabilities.
At the event, a demonstration of riding and games was given by riders from the Associação Portuguesa de Paralisia Cerebral de Faro (Portuguese Association of Cerebral Palsy), the Associação Algarvia de Pais e Amigos de Crianças Diminuídas Mentais (Algarve Association of Parents and Friends of Children with Diminished Mental Abilities), Existir from Loulé and autistic children from the special needs class at the EB school in Almancil.
Rotary club president Bill Mahoney said: “The event was clearly enjoyed by all riders. Sheer joy and enthusiasm was shared by both children and young adults.”
Riding for the Disabled in the Algarve is currently looking for helpers to assist with the project and would like to hear from anyone who would like to be involved. Basic training is provided. “There is tremendous satisfaction in knowing that you are helping young people to gain significant therapeutic benefits along with gaining confidence and building social skills,” concluded Bill.
For further information about Riding for the Disabled in the Algarve, please contact 919 060 604 or 962 027 677, or for more information about the Rotary Club Estoi Palace International, please email [email protected] or visit www.rotaryestoipalace.org
