Back in 2006 there were few options for therapeutic, horse-related activities for people with disabilities in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties. Berrien County's 4-H Club offered their "We Can Ride" program through Michigan State University Extension. It was a spring and summer only program for youth and adults ages 5 to 26.
The next closest facility was the Cheff Therapeutic Riding Center south of Gull Lake between Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. It was that same year a group of volunteers came together to form the Therapeutic Equestrian Center (TEC) as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) service organization. TEC was the first center in the tri-county area to offer year-round, horse-related activities, and therapeutic riding to people young and old with disabilities.
The next closest facility was the Cheff Therapeutic Riding Center south of Gull Lake between Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. It was that same year a group of volunteers came together to form the Therapeutic Equestrian Center (TEC) as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) service organization. TEC was the first center in the tri-county area to offer year-round, horse-related activities, and therapeutic riding to people young and old with disabilities.
Services
Become a TEC Friend
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Thank you for your interest in supporting the Therapeutic Equestrian Center. As a nonprofit organization, TEC is grateful for the support of our friends and the communities we serve. Your support makes "I Did It!" moments such as this happen. A parent shared that because of riding at TEC her daughter is better at listening and is much calmer; especially, at school where her teacher has noticed great improvement as well.
Meet TEC's Horses
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Garth came to TEC, along with Tori from Vandalia, Ohio. He is an experienced trail, lesson, and camp pony. Being as tall as he is wide, his size comes in handy for riders with balance issues and need a broad base of support. Volunteers also appreciate his size when they sidewalk with riders. His steady, laid-back, and patient personality is ideal for most riders; especially, those who may experience emotional outbursts.
Info for Riders
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No horse experience is necessary to participate in a program at TEC. Our programs are designed to introduce you to these gentle, loving animals in a safe and nurturing environment. The horses and programs at TEC aid people living with disabilities to discover and maximize their individual potential while working toward their therapeutic goals and fostering greater independence.
Forms & Tuition Assistance
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All TEC participants and riders are required to review the Rider Handbook and complete in full the applicable rider application packet. Our goal is to never turn away a participant/rider because of their inability to afford the program. Through TAP, TEC is able to offer scholarships and tuition assistance to participants based on financial need, need for service/therapy, and staff recommendations.
Tec With Vets
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It has been said that the hardest part of going to war is coming home. Soldiers who are deployed in combat zones witness unspeakable horrors and face the possibility of death daily. Life in the battlefield, too often, leaves these men and women scarred for life physically and emotionally. Once they return home they face a new battle - reacclimating to civilian life.
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