Last year, New Zealand Riding for the Disabled (NZRDA / RDA) celebrated its 60th Anniversary in New Zealand.
The RDA story in New Zealand began with one group in Waipukurau, Central Hawke’s Bay in 1962. Today, the national umbrella organisation represents over 50 affiliated groups around the country. RDA provides life-changing opportunities for more than 3,000 disabled children and adults in local communities each year.
“We enable and support our riders to achieve good lives including meaningful participation in, and contribution to, important life activities and their communities,” says Donna Kennedy, NZRDA’s Chief Executive.
The warmth and three-dimensional movement of the horse is transmitted through the rider’s body, delivering therapy that improves muscle tone, balance, posture and coordination, as well as providing sport and recreation and learning opportunities while riding.
Our programmes are professional, effective, high quality and - most importantly - safe, with qualified Coaches and volunteers who must meet ongoing training requirements. This ensures they remain relevant and at the forefront of service delivery.
Meet Jack, one of our riders. Jack is a lively five and a half year old. He had amniotic band syndrome. For Jack, that means he is missing his lower arm, but at RDA, they see Jack first and not his disability.
The physical benefits from therapeutic horse riding are enormous and contribute to
riders’ self-esteem, confidence, and overall wellbeing.
RDA has been celebrating the organisation's 60 year journey with a variety of events which have been held in 2022. These included a Breakfast at Parliament, a Morning Tea at Government House Auckland and a Virtual Event. The Virtual Celebration is available online so please feel free to view this interesting video – which features rider stories and volunteer stories - by visiting our website at rda.org.nz
“We’re aiming to use this milestone to make more people aware of what we actually do, and - in turn – to reach more riders like Jack and continue to change lives,” says Donna.
Content and photos courtesy of NZRDA
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