Walk on Water By Mary Brotherton fencing or other building projects. Junior and senior high school students can earn hours for their Bright Futures Scholarships. The main barn displays plaques inside, to express gratitude for their community business partners. “Businesses around the county offer free services,” Patti said, “such as pest control (Slug-A-Bug), farrier (Diamond J), land clearing (Franklin), electrical (Accent), plumbing, air conditioning (Chilly Pig), landscaping, and feed delivery (Tractor Supply). Donors have supported WOW through our PayPal account on our website, Venmo, Zelle, and by providing grants. Organizations such as churches, CVS, and Christian Care Ministry will send groups to volunteer to do special projects, several times a year. Restaurants such as Chick-Fil-A, Ryan’s, Long Doggers, and Olive Garden donate food for our camps and fall festival.”
Walk on Water Ministries (WOW) is an equineassisted therapy and horseback riding program for individuals with special needs, at-risk teens, and typically developing children. Participants work with horses in a safe, compassionate environment.
PATH Certified The staff at Walk on Water consists of PATH certified trainers, which means they are members of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International organization, as well as degreed personnel, and therapists. This ensures that participants are getting the best care in the Equine Assisted Therapy Program. Sessions involve guided interaction between staff, volunteers, and a horse that may include riding, grooming, feeding, and bonding with one of the 10 rescued horses.
Patti Bryan founded the organization after she felt God calling her to action.
“Our Internship Program reaches across the country to anyone who would like to learn about starting their own program,” Patti said. “Interns from colleges and similar equine therapy groups apply to our program, which runs summer, spring, winter, and fall. Interns selected for that season are provided lodging on campus, and experience in the field and office. Intern inquiries can be made through emailing me at praisedancer.bryan426@ gmail.com.”
Patti said, “We are committed to teaching responsibility, self-confidence, teamwork, and God’s word with the help of our equine partners. We joyfully accept students of all abilities and backgrounds. WOW was built by the community, for the community.”
Generous Community
The community has been very generous in providing for the needs of Walk on Water. More than 100 volunteers a month give of their time as feeders, leaders, side walkers, gardeners, and work on
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Learn more! WalkonWaterHorses.com. ,
