Looking back on the seven-year history of The Oceanside Charitable Foundation, it’s no small feat that through the Regional Affiliate Program, the group has granted over $300,000 to over 25 nonprofit programs throughout Oceanside.
From arts and science, to environmental education and nature, The Oceanside Charitable Foundation has been committed to lifting up the community since 2009.
This year, the Grants Committee members decided to focus on health and human services projects for its grantmaking. As Grants Committee Chair Beverly Holtz summarized, “our goal this year was to support healthy and active lifestyles in our community in creative ways.”
Outdoor Access Through Horses
That mission is well represented with the Ivey Ranch Park Association. Ivey Ranch is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing unique learning opportunities that strengthen and develop the lives of individuals from all backgrounds.
Founded in 2003 with one horse and two riders, Ivey Ranch has grown to 19 horses that today serve over 120 participants per week. In addition to an accredited equestrian facility, the organization boasts a range of educational programs from therapeutic riding to Veterans assistance.
Thanks to support from The Oceanside Charitable Foundation, Ivey Ranch will have an even greater impact in the community. The 2015 grant will put 125 new senior citizens and residents with mobility impairments through a six-week Therapeutic Riding Program. The course incorporates both physical and psychological components through weekly riding lessons with trained instructors.
“The physical, mental, and emotional benefits for seniors and mobility impaired riders are unlike any other,” explains Tonya Danielly, Executive Director of Ivey Ranch Park Association. “In addition to the improvements to strength and balance, the bond that develops between a horse and rider inspires a sense of teamwork, responsibility, communication, independence and joy.”
The program truly embodies The Oceanside Charitable Foundation’s goal of supporting healthy and active lifestyles through creative means.
Get Involved
Have your friends or family members benefited from Ivey Ranch’s programs? Do you know of other organizations doing similar, positive work in your community?
If you aren’t a member yet, the Regional Affiliate Program is the perfect way to become an active participant in your community’s growth, wherever you live.
