Therapeutic Equestrian Center Holyoke, MA

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T.E.C. FAQ'S   What is T.E.C.? T.E.C. is a 501(c)(3) private non-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors.  It was founded in 1982 for the purpose of promoting and enhancing, through the use of horseback riding, the abilities of each participant to reach their highest potential and to promote to the general public an understanding of the needs and abilities of people with disabilities. How is T.E.C. funded? T.E.C. is funded by grants, donations, gifts (see Wish List), special fund raising events and a growing group of supporters called the T.E.C. Under-riders. Is there a fee? The fee is $180.00 per rider per each six-week session.  This is a co-payment fee with T.E.C. fund raising operations furnishing most of the operating expenses for the sessions. How long are the sessions? Therapeutic Riding Sessions are six weeks long.  T.E.C. runs six six-week sessions a year.  Riders can enroll in as many sessions a year as they desire. Do the instructors receive special training to work with people with disabilities? All T.E.C. Instructors are NARHA (North American Riding for the Handicapped Association) Certified.  T.E.C. is a NARHA Affiliate Member Center and follows the guidelines set by NARHA. How large are the groups? Groups are a maximum of four riders.   Are private lessons available?   Yes, private lessons are available by request. Do the riders have assistance during the lesson? All riders in a session have a leader for the horse and side walkers assisting them if needed. How often do the sessions meet? Session meet once per week. How long are the sessions? The sessions are approximately 50 minutes  long and include mounted and unmounted  activities. Is there an age limit? Riders younger than 5 are evaluated on an individual basis.  T.E.C. currently has riders from 4 to 70 years old. Is any special equipment required? Helmets are required.  T.E.C. provides helmets for all riders to use during the sessions.  T.E.C. also has helmets available for purchase. What clothing should the rider wear? T.E.C. suggests riders wear boots with a heel, but T.E.C. will allow riders to wear sneakers.  Long pants are also required. Does T.E.C. run its lesson program all year long? T.E.C. has an indoor arena and our lesson program runs all year long. (See the  schedule of lessons.) What if lessons are canceled? If T.E.C. cancels due to weather or any other reason we will have make up sessions or credit those lessons onto the next session.  T.E.C. does not offer cash refunds.    How will I know if lessons are canceled at T.E.C.? T.E.C. follows the Holyoke cancellations.  If Holyoke Schools are closed due to weather, T.E.C. will be closed.  Please watch Channel 22 WWLP for cancellations.  If you are in doubt, call T.E.C. 413-532-1462.  We will have a message on the answering machine stating the cancellation. What if the rider has to cancel? Please notify T.E.C. in advance if you will be unable to attend your scheduled class.  Any unexcused absence loses the lesson.  If the rider has a medical reason for missing their lessons, T.E.C. will credit those lessons onto the next session.  T.E.C. does not offer cash refunds. What must a rider do to enroll in a session? All riders must submit completed application forms before being allowed to participate.  When the application is received T.E.C. will try to find a suitable class and schedule the applicant.  If a suitable group is not available your name will be put on a waiting list.  You will be notified when an opening is available.   How do I get a Rider Application Package? Please contact T.E.C. at 413-532-1462 or email us at info@equestriantherapy.org .   What if you have more questions? Please contact T.E.C. at 413-532-1462 or email us at info@equestriantherapy.org .