NEWSLETTER

Sheamus: Big Heart, Big Hooves, Big Personality

This month, we're excited to introduce Sheamus, our handsome Gyper Vanner who has been a valuable member of our Adaptive Riding program. A friendly giant, Sheamus fits right in with horses and humans, connecting quite easily to those around him. His choppy steps have provided steady movement and just the right amount of stimulation for our riders. Sheamus is quite aware of the spotlight on him when cameras or visitors are around, earning him the well-deserved nickname of "Fabio." His devotion to our riders and their volunteers are part of what make our program so special.

UPCOMING EVENT

Another reminder that this year will be our 4th Annual Pickleball Derby and we would love to have you join us! 

Click For Player Registration: https://app.pickleballden.com/external-tournament/6480350

Showcase your business alongside these incredible sponsors of the Hub City Pickleball Derby Presented by the Okaloosa County TDD coming May 1-3 at Twin Hills Park in Crestview!

Sponsorships available until April 4th print deadline

• Destin Fort Walton Beach Tourist Development District
• Live Oak Fiber
• Tim Smith Acura
• Florida Power & Light
• 7 Brew
• Wave 102.1, Highway 98.1, Rock 92.1, & Florida Man Radio 103.1
• Eglin Federal Credit Union
• North Okaloosa Physicians Group
• Helenback Pizza
• Pounders Hawaiian Grill
• David Scott Lee Buick GMC

UPDATES

Mental Health Program Updates

While openings are extremely limited at this time, we do maintain a waitlist and make efforts to keep individuals informed about their status as space becomes available. We will be adding another Licensed Mental Health Counselor to our roster May 1st.

How to Join the Waitlist:

To be added, please contact our office by call, text, or email and provide the following information:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Phone number
• Email address
• Preferred form of insurance or payment

To add a child to the waitlist, please include all of the above information, along with the full names of their parent(s) or guardian(s).

Insurance Accepted:

We currently accept VA, CHAMPVA, TRICARE (East, Prime, Select), Florida Blue, UnitedHealthcare, and Aetna.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to expand our capacity and serve more members of our community.

Property Updates

THANK YOU IMPACT 100 LADIES!

Exciting progress is underway! Our multipurpose office & welcome building is nearing completion, with walls, insulation, doors, and windows now in place. Just a few more finishing touches and it will be ready!

Looking ahead to this summer, we’re thrilled to begin work on a barn extension that will expand space for our Adaptive Riding program. This addition will offer improved storage for tack, easier access to first aid, crossties, and other essential features.

We hope this new space will create an even more comfortable, functional, and supportive environment for our participants, volunteers, and horses.

Thank you!

Thank you to the Okaloosa Sheriff's Star Charities for their generous contribution to support our programs and services!

The OCSO Sheriff’s Star Charity is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, established in 2014 by members of the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. Their mission is to support local law enforcement officers and their families during times of need or hardship, giving back to those who tirelessly serve our community. In addition, we provide labor and financial assistance to activities, charities, and causes that benefit the broader community. Visit www.ocsostarcharity.com to learn more

ADAPTIVE/THERAPEUTIC RIDING & VOLUNTEERING

We need you!

Ready to make a difference? We’re looking for volunteers age 14+ to support riders with unique abilities. Step into the arena, lend a hand, and be part of something truly meaningful!

We appreciate those who choose to give of  their time in support of our mission and to   the community.

Horse experience is helpful but not required.

Please visit our website to apply: https://healinghoofsteps.org/become-a-volunteer

Meet a Volunteer

Meet another original, long-standing volunteers and her horse, who STILL dedicate their time to our mission and vision---Colleen Delemarre and her horse Karma!  Over five years ago, Colleen and her two daughters began devoting time and resources supporting our Adaptive Horse-Riding Program and our special participants. Today, Colleen continues to demonstrate patience, kindness, and humility to all two-legged and four-legged members involved. It is because of committed volunteers like Colleen and her family that the program continues to thrive and serve our community.