Pacific Riding for Developing Abilities (PRDA), led by Executive Director Michelle Ingall, has been transforming lives through equestrian therapy since 1973. Located in Langley, PRDA offers therapeutic horseback riding and ground-based horsemanship programs for individuals with diverse abilities, including autism, cerebral palsy, and anxiety. These programs provide physical and emotional benefits, from improved mobility to increased self-esteem. With a growing waiting list, PRDA seeks community support through donations, volunteering, and fundraising events.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
Our mission is: Through equestrian therapy and with the involvement of the community, we strive to enhance the lives of people with a wide range of abilities.
We offer therapeutic horseback riding and equestrian activities such as Equine Assisted Learning and ground-based horsemanship lessons to children and adults with diverse abilities such as autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, anxiety, mental health challenges and many others.
What problem does it aim to solve?
PRDA has created an inclusive community of like-minded people including dozens of volunteers who come together each week to provide a beneficial therapy to our clients. Some of the benefits of participation include increased core strength, balance and stability, improved joint mobility and strength, improved proprioception, gross and fine motor skills, increased self-confidence and self-esteem and many others.
When did you start/join it?
PRDA has been around since 1973. I have been involved for over 20 years, starting out as a volunteer, then a part-time instructor, then I became the full-time Head Riding Instructor almost 20 years ago, and I have been the Executive Director now for over 18 years.
What made you want to get involved?
I love everything that PRDA does and what it stands for. I wanted to be a part of this organization because I believe in all the therapeutic benefits of spending time with a horse.
What was the situation like when you started?
Change is inevitable, and over the years PRDA has grown and become a premier centre for equestrian therapy with a strong reputation for excellence.
How has it changed since?
PRDA’s growth has taken years to accomplish, along with a very dedicated team of staff and volunteers, and of course the horses, who are the true therapists.
What more needs to be done?
We currently have a waiting list to join our programs, and our goal is always to keep the lessons affordable so as many people as possible can access our programs. Funding is always a challenge, and so is finding a sufficient number of volunteers.
How can our readers help?
If you have ever considered volunteering some time to a wonderful organization that supports everyone’s unique needs in an inclusive environment, I encourage you to sign up to volunteer! No experience is necessary, as we teach you everything you need to know to be safe and a valuable member of our team.
Do you have any events coming up?
Yes! We are hosting a Holiday Campaign with Purdy’s Chocolates, the information for this yummy fundraiser can be found on our website. And lastly, we are hosting a raffle for a Hit Air Equestrian Safety Vest! There are a limited number of tickets available, which can be purchased on our website as well.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
This is a great question! I’d have to say OWL, which stands for Orphaned Wildlife. They have helped us on many occasions with orphaned animals, including young fledgling owls. Once the owl has been rehabilitated at their facility, they return the owl to PRDA to be released at dusk so they always get to come home again. 😊
