Being non-profits serving individuals with disabilities in Gwinnett County (at the time), it was inevitable that Annandale Village and Driving Magic would discover each other. Our respective leaders exchanged numbers and I, as Activities Coordinator, was given the task of setting up lessons for our Villagers. From our first visit to Fairhope Stables in Duluth, we all realized that the carriage-driving lessons and equestrian skills training the Villagers were receiving had a great potential to be highly therapeutic for all involved.
Jennifer and Matt Lindskoog and their incredibly loyal and devoted team of volunteers were instant kindred spirits. I was impressed with the professionalism and thorough information-gathering that was involved even prior to the first lesson. It became clear very quickly that the paperwork on each Villager was not just a formality – that each lesson was tailored to the student’s needs and abilities so that they could have the most positive experience possible – stressing independence, self-esteem and personal growth.
It has been thrilling to watch Villagers improve during the three years of lessons, first at Fairhope Stables, then at the current Steadfast Farms in Hoschton. I have seen individuals with physical and verbal challenges beam as they literally sit head and shoulders above their peers and learn to lead the magnificent horses through the obstacles courses with aids designed for them. I have also seen behavioral issues melt away when the Villager feels in control and receives respect and praise from the volunteers and instructors. Also just as therapeutic are the grooming sessions when some of the Villagers communicate with these gentle giants through a kind touch. We have learned to understand that each animal has a different personality – they are all individuals with their own stories of challenges and limits, but are loving and powerful just the same.
I can’t imagine the Activities Program at Annandale Village without our Driving Magic partners.
Sandy Weaver, Activities Coordinator
