Mark Twain once famously said that everyone complains about the weather but no one does anything about it. While that remains true, PATH Intl. does its best to offset the effects of the weather for its centers through its Disaster Relief Fund.
Helping horses during natural disasters
PATH Intl. Disaster Relief Fund helps fund expenses at centers devastated by natural or man-made catastrophic disasters.
© 2012 by NASA
In 2012, the United States saw a record-breaking heat wave. Tornadoes swept through parts of Texas and Oklahoma as well as other parts of Midwestern and Southeastern United States. Dallas saw a massive hailstorm, Hurricanes Bud and Isaac pounded the coastlines as did numerous tropical storms.
Many areas around the world experienced severe flooding, leaving many horses without refuge. Add to the weather incidents the wildfires that ravaged the countryside and threatened lives as well as property (www.noaa.gov).
When PATH Intl. Centers suffer damage to property because of natural or man-made catastrophic disasters and are in immediate need, the PATH Intl. Disaster Relief Fund can help in funding expenses not normally covered by operating insurance. Centers in good standing can apply for funds by visiting the PATH Intl. website and downloading an application.
If you would like more information about the PATH Intl. Disaster Relief Fund and how you can help, contact Megan Ream Ferry or call her at (800) 369-7433, ext. 107.
About PATH Intl.
The Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) was formed in 1969 as the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association to promote equine-assisted activities and therapies for individuals with special needs. With more than 800 member centers, 47,877 children and adults find a sense of independence through involvement with horses.
These member centers range from small, one-person programs to large operations with several instructors and therapists. In addition to horseback riding, a center may offer any number of equine-assisted activities such as driving, vaulting, trail riding, competition, ground work or stable management.
Through a wide variety of educational resources, the association helps individuals start and maintain successful programs. There are more than 43,000 volunteers, 3,761 instructors, 6,051 equines and thousands of contributors from all over the world making a difference in people’s lives at PATH Intl. centers.