New Laureus project uses horses to inspire children

A new project has been announced by the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation in Germany, using the power of horse-riding to influence social change among young people.

The “Make children strong with horses" was launched as an official Laureus project by successful show jumper and Laureus Ambassador Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum, who also becomes patron for the project.

"Make children strong with horses" is an inclusive equestrian project which launched in 2011, as an initiative of the German Curatorship for Therapeutic Riding Association (DKThR). The main focus of the project has been for joint educational and motor support of children and young people with and without special needs as part of the kindergarten and school program..

Over the past three years, a very successful and sustainable project has been established and links have been made with 70 kindergartens and schools in the Federal Territory. For the next three years the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation Germany / Austria is supporting the Balve-based project alongside one of the best-known equestrian athletes in the world of show jumping, Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum.

"Together with the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation and the DKThR I want children to have access to horses," said Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum, Laureus Ambassador since 2013. "Horses are extremely well suited to teach children warmth, courage and joy of life and help them cope through physical and emotional pain. They are not only a wonderful partner for children and young people in need of support - every child and teen can learn from dealing with horses."

Paul Schif, Managing Director of Laureus Sport for Good Foundation Germany / Austria, said: "I am delighted that we are announcing another Laureus Sport for Good Start project that encourages children and young people through therapeutic riding in their development. We’re grateful for Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum’s support as patron.”