We had the perfect horses AND the dream--- combined with my daughter, Zoe's desire and talent for teaching and experience with disabilities and at-risk youth--- what else ? but organizing a therapeutic riding center.
In the summer of 2003, we offered a summer camp program of riding. This was very successful, so we repeated the program in 2005, adding more groups. We began talking and planning to enlarge our scope and continue through the winter, steadily increasing our client base, making many improvements in the lesson space and building a small office in the barn.
In March of 2006, we formed the official "Dream On Curls Riding Center", became members of NARHA, both as a center and as individuals. Zoe began her certification process and since has been "leveling up" continually. We procured all the necessary insurance, wrote up our manual, developed programs and more programs for all individuals with emotional, physical, and developmental disabilities. This was an exciting time for the the farm and the horses !
Our name has much meaning in several ways-- The first Curly filly born to Top O' The Hill Farm was Dream Curl ~ now 23 years old and still feeling quite youthful. And of course-- our facility is a place where Dreams can come true for many -- riding atop a horse of curls !
That first winter, we had many brave participants who rode outdoors, despite cold and snow-
During that winter of 2006-2007, we realized quickly, that in order to expand and accommodate the needs of all our many riders-- we needed to take the BIG leap to add an indoor arena. We found an excellent company right here in Vermont - B.C.I Construction . The owner, Bud, worked with us on budget and needs and we were able to have the building nearly complete in time for our first open house in April, 2007- which was a day of celebration in all ways !
This was a great decision and has enabled us to serve many more riders with needs. Many of the consumers of the therapeutic riding have sensitivity to heat, cold, brightness of the sun, etc. Some need the enclosed area for security- reducing anxieties.. or increasing focus with less distractions.
We have continued to make large and small improvements to the physical space. This summer we trucked in material to make a nice smooth driveway going up to the indoor for better access. 
We added saddle racks in the indoor - especially for our group lessons- there is a lot of equipment that needs to be organized so the riders can tack up their horse easily.
We have many more goals to reach - so visit our blog often for news and updates ~
In the meantime remember ~ At Dream On Curls Riding Center we focus on what our riders **CAN DO** -- NOT on what they can't !
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