Silver Award: Unbridled Confidence Project
It is widely known that horses provide unique therapeutic, developmental, and physical benefits. Scientific research reveals that interacting with horses can drop a human’s salivary cortisol (stress hormone) levels by roughly 36%, and the calming, rhythmic movement of riding regulates sensory input. Unfortunately, inner-city youth usually don’t have the chance to have an equestrian experience due to lack of resources and accessibility. Thanks to a Girl Scout Silver Award project, “Unbridled Confidence Project”, led by Girl Scout Cadette Emma D. from Troop 553 in Virginia Beach, a group of inner-city kids from Mercy Drops Dream Center (MDD) in Portsmouth were given an opportunity.
“For most, it was the first time meeting a horse,” said Emma. “The kids were able to spend a day at Roseoldian Farms with experienced horse rider mentors and gain confidence in trying new things that boosted their self-esteem.”
Emma’s target audience were children 8-18 year of age who reside in under-resourced communities and who are served by MDD’s Adopt-a-Blocks program. To get sign-ups, she sought and received support from MDD. She then attended the Adopt-a-Blocks program where she distributed flyers and talked to the kids about the opportunity.
Through the partnership with MDD and Roseoldian Farms, she was able to offer a full-day experience that included transportation, lunch, and activities. It was such a success that the farm and the nonprofit plan to make it an annual event!
“It was a real learning experience,” Emma said. “I created the idea, organized and led the Junior Horse Trainers, collaborated with partner organization, coordinated travel, and created a day-long program with activities. I also managed the budget and organized the lunch. The project challenged me and gave me confidence. I learned to think through my plan and solve problems. It made me proud to follow through on my commitment to the kids and their families.”
Congratulations, Emma!
