Indiana University Athletics
In the Community: PALS
2/13/2012 12:00:00 AM | Women's Volleyball
Feb. 13, 2012
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - Indiana Volleyball is giving back this spring by volunteering throughout the community. IUHoosiers.com recently followed IU Volleyball player Jordan Haverly on her weekly trip to People and Animal Learning Services (P.A.L.S). IU Volleyball spends each spring volunteering at four different non-profit organizations in Monroe County.
ABOUT P.A.L.S:
PALS is a nonprofit Equine Assisted Program providing therapeutic riding for children and adults with disabilities and at-risk youth. PALS is located in Bloomington, IN and was founded in 2000 by Fern Bonchek, PALS Executive Director.
PALS is the only therapeutic riding center in Monroe County and surrounding counties that is accredited as a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) Premier Accredited Center. PALS is also a member of the Indiana Horse Council and a United Way Member Agency. PALS follows the safety standards developed by PATH Intl. and uses PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors who are trained in therapeutic riding techniques, CPR, first aid, and safety. PALS uses carefully selected and specially trained horses and other animals, to provide the safest and highest quality learning for a therapeutic environment.
PALS treats its riders as individuals, focusing on ability rather than disability. PALS serves individuals with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities. All PALS riders are carefully evaluated by a medical professional and/or a PATH Intl. certified therapeutic riding instructor to ensure that the most appropriate education and therapy plan is developed to meet specific physical, cognitive and therapeutic needs. Depending on each student's needs and abilities, rider's lessons last 30-45 minutes.
To learn more about PALS, visit www.palstherapy.org/.
