Local Nonprofit Uses Horses to Increase Confidence, Motor Skills for Special Needs Kids

Novato has a new nonprofit that allows children with autism, Cerebral Palsy and other special needs to ride horses and experience the outdoors.

It’s called Hooves for Harmony and was founded by Heather Parker, a teacher and certified horse trainer. The organization began in Castro Valley, but has recently relocated to Novato. This past Sunday, Hooves held a grand opening at Morning Star Farm at O’Hair Park, treating guests to hot drinks, snacks and horse rides.

The goal of Hooves for Harmony is to give children with disabilities, whether physical, emotional, or developmental, a chance to interact with horses, increase muscle control and balance, and have fun.

Many of the horses the group uses were abandoned because they either had injuries, a bad temper or both. Parker adopted them and gave them a new purpose in life. And judging by the testimonials on her website, parents are thrilled to have such an organization nearby.