Due to COVID-19, Kate Vasquez, founder of Open Trail Ranch, had to discontinue riding lessons for the safety of her volunteers and students. In September when Kate started announcing the reopening, she received many Facebook posts, emails and messages from the riders missing their teachers and horses. Many expressed thanksgiving and gratitude for the opportunity to continue working with their four-legged friends.
From Kate Vasquez, Founder: "I am incredibly thankful for and blessed to be able to serve the amazing special needs population in our community every single day. As an autistic adult myself, I am fortunate enough to know the benefits of partnering with an equine, and the opportunity to share that with others means more to me that words can express."
From Amber Wodarz, Lead Instructor: "I’m thankful that I get to work in a field that allows me to do what I love everyday! What I love about Open Trail Ranch is that I have found a center that shares my values and will help me grow into a well-rounded instructor, allowing me to give back to our community!"
From Emily (teen volunteer) - "I look forward to connecting with and helping people and working with the horses each week. It is the highlight of my day going to volunteer!"
From Kristie (adult volunteer): "I am thankful to volunteer at Open Trail Ranch, because I enjoy sharing my love for horses with the riders. It makes me happy to see their excitement and enthusiasm when they are around horses and to watch their improvement over time."
From a young adult participant in our program: "I cannot wait to be with my favorite equine partner as I ride around the arena enjoying the freedom of being independent."
From a child participant in our program: "I love my horse. I am so happy to get to ride with her. She loves me so much and is my best friend."
Kate Vasquez knew from an early age that she wanted to combine her love of horses with her desire to help those with special needs. She had a dream and made it a reality. Open Trail Ranch is at 28710 Boerne Stage Road. The email is info@opentrailranch.org; The phone number is (210) 367-8248.
Open Trail Ranch offers Equestrian Assisted Therapy – equine-assisted activities and therapies to children and adults with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. The riders’ diagnoses include conditions and special needs such as Cerebral Palsy, Autism, Down’s Syndrome, ADD/ADHD, Fragile X, Multiple Sclerosis, Stroke, Developmental Delays, emotional and cognitive disorders, as well as speech, hearing and vision impairments. The instructors are PATH certified, accomplished equestrians, and have extensive training in instructing riders with special needs.