A group in Sanquhar is looking to expand its ability to provide horse-riding lessons and support to disadvantaged and disabled riders of all ages.
Happy Hooves haw launched a new campaign to raise £10,000 to build a new state-of-the-art centre, having bagged £200,000 of support already.
The campaign aims to raise the cash to go towards the building of a new all-weather indoor arena, opening doors to new possibilities for young individuals in need.
The Happy Hooves team says that it has witnessed first-hand how equestrian therapy can have a transformative impact on mental health, well-being, confidence, and motor skills.
However, the unpredictable weather in the region often limits the number of sessions it can offer, hindering its ability to support more individuals.
The all-weather indoor arena will allow Happy Hooves to provide year-round riding lessons and therapeutic sessions, irrespective of weather conditions.
Happy Hooves Sanquhar CIC has already secured £100,000 from Sports Scotland and an additional £100,000 from The Holywood Trust.
Laura Wilson, founder and director of Happy Hooves Sanquhar CIC, said: "We are incredibly grateful to Sports Scotland and The Holywood Trust for their belief in our mission.
"Now, we embark on the final leg of our journey, with an ambitious goal of raising £10,000 through crowdfunding to complete the project."
Beyond providing riding lessons, the indoor arena will create employment and volunteer opportunities, foster education, and improve the overall health and well-being of young, disadvantaged individuals.
It will also be a hub for the community, offering a café and retail space, Changing Space accessible toilet facilities plus opportunities for the community to hire the space for other activities such as dog agility, archery and more.
The group has until the middle of September to raise the cash.
Happy Hooves is offering a free rising lesson and experience of equestrian therapy for anyone who pledges £100, and a pony experience for anyone pledging £500.
You can support the effort by going to https://bit.ly/3YbQVqu.
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