The Brightside: 3E’s Equestrian Education Program
LAUREL, Del. – A program in Delaware is changing the approach to equestrian life, in hopes of creating better horse and human interactions. Those interactions, in turn, meant to give a better life to horses here on the Eastern Shore. “We work on them building authentic relationships with the horse. One of the biggest things is self-awareness to not only be aware of themselves but also social awareness, being aware of how they’re impacting others around them including horses,” says Rebecca West, with 3E’s Equestrian Education Program.
The equestrian community here on the Eastern Shore remains strong and steady. However, inclusivity and education are what the 3E’s Equestrian Education Program is trying to address. “Our belief that you don’t put a beginner directly on a horse, that there are skills, foundational skills, mindsets that they need to master before you put them in a situation where they could potentially be injured,” says West, also the Director of education programming and events.
West tells 47 ABC, the 3E’s are to ‘Educate’ participants, by ‘Equipping’ them with the skills and mindsets needed, for ‘Empowered’ horsemanship, all of which starts before participants even saddle up. Which we’re told will help improve outcomes for horses. “With proactive education, lessening the number of horses that end up in places like rescues, end up in places where they’re subject to neglect or abuse or even ending up in kill pens and auctions.”
West says her background as an educator and in special education, has helped to shape some of the curriculum that’s furthering the mission of saving horses, while also growing the equestrian community. “We have six courses, each course has very specific end goals and objectives that students are working towards.” She adds, “Learning empathy, learning to authentically build relationships with others, learning how to communicate effectively. I think it builds skills beyond just what you would associate with a horse.”
Part of growing the equestrian community, is the organization’s ability to accommodate everyone, no matter who they are, what they look like, or even their physical ability. “Whether it’s people with mixed abilities, people with disabilities, race, gender, color, or belief.” West goes on to say, “We are inclusive and we bring in all sorts of people for our clientele. What I think that adds especially to our area is just accessibility to programming that can be life-changing for people. We truly believe there’s a place for everyone here.”
West also tells us, through their programming, they can take participants to horse shows and competitions. They host educationally focused birthday parties, design custom events, and are a full care boarding facility.
They hope through the growth of the program, more people will see the importance of the equestrian community and its impact on everyone.
For more information, you can visit their website.
