Opinion: 5 Reasons You Should Donate to GREAT for Give for Good

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Shreveport-Bossier City's Give for Good Day, northwest Louisiana's biggest day of giving, is coming up on Tuesday, May 7th, and here's my elevator pitch asking you to consider supporting GREAT.

I've personally volunteered at GREAT in Greenwood, LA for the last five years and I'd like to share one of my favorite memories. One of the students I work with leaned over and asked me to help her trot. It was a moment that filled me with humility and gratitude. To think, she entrusted me with her safety as she faced something she was afraid of. It made me realize just how fortunate I am to be involved with such amazing individuals.

You see, when most people talk about inclusivity, they often focus on race or gender. But what I've come to understand through my time at GREAT is that true inclusivity goes beyond that. It encompasses those facing daily challenges, whether they be physical, cognitive, or behavioral. GREAT embodies this spirit of inclusivity and so much more.

Read More: Giving Starts Early for Shreveport's Give for Good Day on May 7th

As a volunteer at GREAT, I've been privileged to see the incredible impact of equine therapy firsthand. I've witnessed students with traumatic brain injuries, Down Syndrome, autism, and more, grow stronger both emotionally and physically through their interactions with these amazing animals. And perhaps the most beautiful thing of all is seeing the sheer joy on their faces.

While you might not be able to support the GREAT program directly, you can still make a difference by contributing to The Arc of Caddo-Bossier as a whole. And let me tell you why I believe supporting GREAT/The Arc during the Community Foundation of North Louisiana's Give for Good Day on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, is so crucial.

1. It supports people right here in NWLA
2. Inclusivity
3. Independence
4. Physical and emotional growth
5. Numerous health benefits

GREAT's mission statement is to, 'Build unlimited opportunities for people with disabilities through therapeutic horsemanship.'  The Arc of Caddo-Bossier has multiple programs, but as you can tell, GREAT is the one that really works on my heart. It takes a lot of money to run a facility like GREAT and I know they'd love your support.

GREAT is located in Greenwood on Greenwood-Springridge Road. Call (318) 938-9166 if you're interested in volunteering.

Helpful Links to Learn More About Equine Assisted Therapy:

Using Horses in Therapy with Troubled Teens
Using Horses in Therapy for Children with Autism/Asperger's
Using Horses in Therapy for Relationship Issues, Depression, and Anxiety
Using Horses in Therapy for Addiction
Make a Donation to GREAT via PayPal by clicking HERE.