Camelot’s Program
Camelot is a bridge leading to a life of freedom and self-fulfillment for children
and adults with physical disabilities. Founded in 1980, our non-profit program offers
horsemanship as a means of therapy that improves strength, balance, coordination,
and self-esteem. More than a riding program, Camelot is a philosophy that views
every human being as a masterpiece and rests on the belief that love and courage
can slay the mightiest of dragons!
Using the horse as a metaphor of life, our students learn to become stronger than
the obstacles in their paths. Together, we achieve this through one-on-one programming
for each student, based on his or her unique abilities and needs. Camelot’s
students proceed through a demanding curriculum that includes every facet of horsemanship:
riding, driving, grooming, training, showing, veterinary care, tack selection and
maintenance, and stable management.
In spite of disabilities such as blindness, paralysis, amputation, and hearing impairment,
many of our students go on to own their own horses. It can be done! All it takes
is an interest in horses and a willingness to stretch in body, mind, and spirit.
Many students who have completed our program have gone on to fulfill their goals
of higher education and community leadership. Often times, alumni continue their
involvement with Camelot by volunteering and mentoring fellow riders. Giving back
is part of the Camelot philosophy.
I Saw a Child
John Anthony Davies
I saw a child who couldn’t walk,
sit on a horse, laugh and talk.
Then ride it through a field of daisies
and yet he could not walk unaided.
I saw a child, no legs below,
sit on a horse, and make it go
through woods of green
and places he had never been
to sit and stare,
except from a chair.
I saw a child who could only crawl
mount a horse and sit up tall
Put it through degrees of paces
and laugh at the wonder in our faces.
I saw a child born into strife,
Take up and hold the reins of life,
and that same child was heard to say,
Thank God for showing me the way.