A low-key horse show at Avenel Equestrian Center helped raise money for Great and Small, a group that provides therapeutic contact with horses for children who have been victims of abuse or neglect.
The show took place on Sunday, Oct. 13
The organization also adopts horses and ponies with the right temperament who might also have been neglected or abused, or whose futures are uncertain because of old age or other infirmities.
“Horses often inspire in children feelings of wonderment, reverence, affection and self confidence,” said Great and Small president Sarah Mulkern Phelps. “For many children, these new feeling will grow and help them through the recovery process, and, we hope, for the rest of their lives.”
The organization gives about 200 riding lessons a year in six week sessions to four or five children at a time. It is funded entirely through private donations, with volunteers contributing the teaching hours.
For information on making a contribution or volunteering, call Phelps at 703-892-5519.