Mission

The Cowichan Therapeutic Riding Association provides therapeutic riding and equine-based therapeutic services for persons with disabilities. We promote and facilitate access to horses as a therapeutic alternative, recreational/sport opportunity, and agent of well-being in the lives of all participants. Through the power of the human-equine bond, CTRA brings together individuals, families, and the community in the spirit of healing, inclusion, and human growth.

Vision

CTRA exists as a place where the human-equine relationship creates opportunities for achievement and positive human experiences.

What We Do

The Cowichan Therapeutic Riding Association began in 1986 as a small branch of Pacific Riding for the Disabled, running two classes per week on borrowed horses working with riders from a special needs school of the area. After several years and great support from community, CTRA became a tenant of Providence Farm and expanded to a full-time operation. Today, CTRA delivers a variety of programs. Our participants are supported with a small herd of specialized therapy horses, multiple volunteers, and highly-trained instructors who are certified in a multitude of disciplines through Equine Canada, Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association, BC Therapeutic Riding and more.

CTRA is certified under the Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association as an Accredited Examination and Training Centre. We hold a high standard for safety, operations, horse care and more. In addition, many of our instructors hold, or are working towards additional certifications. This array of knowledge allows us to offer a wide variety of programming, tailored to each individual participant to work towards their own health, riding, competition, and/or horsemanship goals. The benefits of Therapeutic Riding, Therapeutic Horsemanship, and Equine Assisted Learning include improved physical, emotional and social wellness . Since we use horses as our partners in the therapeutic process, participants also gain riding skills, greater horsemanship knowledge and skills, and foster a connection with our equine friends.

www.ctra.ca

The CMHA Cowichan Valley Branch's new Youth Emergency Shelter (YES) has been created to provide a safe place for youth. Here, youth can find caring youth workers to listen while providing the basics, such as a warm meal, medical attention, a warm shower and some clean clothes. During this time, they can share what they need and be directed to other resources in the community. Most importantly, YES will serve as a soft place to land in hard times. YES hopes to provide the vital connection needed to change the course of young lives and act as a detour from a potential life on the streets.

The CMHA CVB is excited that funds raised from events since 2022 have been used as a down payment on the purchase of a home in Duncan that will be used as a Youth Emergency Shelter serving 15-18-year-olds. We are excited to welcome youth through the doors and provide a safe, warm place for them to call home. There are three components to this program:

• 1. An overnight shelter for youth that have no-where to go
• 2. An outreach program used to identify youth on the streets who need support
• 3. A drop in, day program for youth to visit for food, warm showers, laundry and support

Where will donations go?

CMHA Cowichan Valley Branch has a significant mortgage to pay down and will need additional funding to develop programs and provide resources for youth staying in the shelter.

Link: CMHA Youth Emergency Shelter

Cowichan Brain Injury Society is a community-based organization dedicated to supporting adults affected by acquired brain injury and their families. CBIS provides a safe, inclusive space where survivors can connect, heal, and thrive.

Acquired brain injuries can be the result of stroke, concussion, accidents, partner violence and toxic substance exposure.

What CBIS Does

• Education & Awareness: CBIS raises awareness about brain injury and its impacts, helping to reduce stigma and promote understanding.

• Support and Rehabilitation: CBIS offers personalized support, rehabilitation programs, and help in accessing other community services. Our services focus on wellness, social connection, and personal growth, helping people navigate life after brain injury.

• Community Integration: CBIS helps survivors reintegrate into the community by fostering independence, building life skills, and encouraging meaningful engagement.

What CBIS Believes

• Everyone deserves dignity and respect, regardless of their injury or abilities.

• Recovery is a lifelong journey and with support, individuals can continue to grow and find purpose.

• Peer support is powerful - knowing you are not alone makes a difference.

• The brain can change — thanks to neuroplasticity, healing and improvement are always possible with effort and encouragement.

Link: Cowichan Brain Injury Society