Just like the famed international olympics, there's a program for atheletes with diseabilties called "The Special Olympics". Here's a feature representing the Special Olympics, including the offical homepage and a chance to help sponsor a S.O. Equestrian!



The offical website of the Special Olympics can be found at [link]
Acording to their website, "The Special Olympics movement includes more than 2.25 million athletes who train and compete in 30 sports through more than 200 Programs in more than 160 countries around the world." ( [link] )

Fiona Angeline is an Equestrian on the Maryland Special Olympics team. You can help by spreading the word and/or by donating at: [link]

You can find out more about sponsoring people and donating at: [link]

There is also a non-profit organization in the US & Canada, called NARHA (North American Handicapped Riding Association; website: [link] ) that allows handicapped people to ride horses for theraputic means. Horses are good therapy for both the body and the mind!
According to their website, "Since 1969, the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association, Inc. (NARHA), has provided Equine Assisted Activity and Therapy (EAAT) programs in the United States and Canada through its network of nearly 800 member centers. Each year, dozens of new centers initiate new programs and more than 38,000 individuals with disabilities benefit from activities which include therapeutic riding, hippotherapy, equine assisted psychotherapy, driving, interactive vaulting, and competition."
I have seen the joy, peace, and hope that NARHA brings to riders and their families.
Both NARHA and the Special Olympics are great organizations that allow humans to spread a lil joy and a LOT of hope around the world.