Bowling Green Community Supports Equine Therapy Initiative

News Summary

The Bowling Green community has rallied around a freshman from SKYCTC, Joshua Martin, who raised over $1,000 for New Beginnings Therapeutic Riding. This initiative, inspired by Joshua’s own experience with cerebral palsy, collected donations and supplies for a local nonprofit that helps individuals with disabilities through equine-assisted activities. The generosity of the community highlights their commitment to support vital services that promote well-being and empowerment.

Bowling Green Community Rallies Behind Student’s Efforts for Equine Therapy

In the heart of Bowling Green, a remarkable story of community spirit and determination unfolded this past December. A dedicated freshman from Southcentral Kentucky Community & Technical College (SKYCTC) took it upon himself to make a significant impact for a cause close to his heart. Joshua Martin, at just 18 years old, organized a 4-H Service Project that ultimately collected over $1,000 in donations for New Beginnings Therapeutic Riding, a local nonprofit focused on supporting individuals with disabilities through equine-assisted activities.

A Personal Connection

Joshua’s journey with New Beginnings Therapeutic Riding began when he was just five years old. Living with cerebral palsy, he has firsthand experience of the benefits that equine therapy can provide. This personal connection enhances the emotional weight of his fundraising efforts, as it’s fueled by gratitude for the support he has received over the years.

Generosity in Action

During December 2024, Joshua encouraged his community to contribute towards a noble cause by promoting a donation drive that sought both cash and essential supplies. He reached out through local media and social media platforms, spreading the word about the drive and its goals. Joshua also took the time to personally ask over 100 neighbors, friends, and family members to dig into their pockets and support the cause. The community responded enthusiastically, leading to an incredible collection of both monetary donations and necessary supplies such as paper towels, laundry detergent, and cleaning products—all vital for the care of the horses and the riders who benefit from the program.

Key Collection Points

To make donating easier for everyone, collection sites were established at several key locations, including the Warren County Cooperative Extension Office, New Beginnings Therapeutic Riding, and McCay and Associates Insurance. These locations served as hubs for generosity, where community members could drop off their contributions and support the cause.

A Goal Exceeded

Originally, Joshua set a goal of raising $500, but with the overwhelming support he received, this number soared past the $1,000 mark! This incredible achievement reflects not only Joshua’s hard work but the willingness of the Bowling Green community to come together for a worthy cause.

Impact on the Organization

The funds and supplies collected will provide significant support for the health and care of the therapy horses at New Beginnings. According to the executive director of New Beginnings, this donation will also assist with volunteer resources, ensuring that they can continue providing essential services to those in need.

An Official Presentation

Joshua is set to present the total donations to New Beginnings on Thursday, January 16th, at their office, located at 600 Bill Ferguson Road in Bowling Green. This presentation will mark a joyful culmination of his efforts and reflect the power of community involvement and support.

Continued Community Engagement

New Beginnings Therapeutic Riding is not just a seasonal charity; they welcome donations, volunteers, and riders year-round. Ongoing support from the community is vital for their continued success and operations. People interested in contributing or learning more about what they do can visit their website at nbtr-bg.org or contact them at 270-777-3600.

A Heartfelt Thank You

Joshua Martin’s initiative exemplifies the spirit of giving and community involvement. His efforts create waves of positive change that resonate throughout Bowling Green while furthering the mission of helping individuals with disabilities to thrive through therapeutic riding. Together, the community continues to forge paths of hope and support for those journeys. Keep up the fantastic work, Bowling Green!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Kentucky Student Raises Over $1,000 for Riding Program

Additional Resources

• WBKO: Local College Student Raises Money for Area Horse Riding School
• Wikipedia: Therapeutic Riding
• WNKY: Local College Student Raises Over $1,000 for New Beginnings Therapeutic Riding
• Google Search: Equine Therapy
• WTOL: BGSU Equine Therapy Program
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Equine Therapy
• WNKY: SKYCTC Student Donates to New Beginnings Therapeutic Riding
• Google News: Therapeutic Riding