In 1994, during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo season,
a small trail ride to visit underprivileged school children began. A year later, a young man, confined to a wheelchair
due to Spina Bifida, asked to be a part of the trail ride. Horseshoes from the Heart
was born. Today, our annual trail ride has over 40 physically or mentally challenged children who become
'cowboys' for a day. What began as a small trail ride to a school now has several hundred participants including members
from the Los Vaqueros Rio Grande Trail Ride Association and members of the Alabama Coushatta Indian tribe. We now ride
to over a dozen schools, visiting thousands of children. Through the generous support of the Houston Margarita Society,
we also have a custom made wagon designed to carry our wheelchair bound 'cowboys' on the trail rides.
With the help of our many wonderful volunteers, Horseshoes
from the Heart is able to host many events for children with special needs. We've taken them to fish farms, bowling,
horseback riding, camping, parades and many other events. As a group, these children are able to truly enjoy themselves
without concerns over what others may think of their disabilities. The volunteers work with these children, having them
do as much as they are capable of. This helps to ensure that not only does child have a great time, but it also permits
their parents and sibling an opportunity to enjoy more quality time with each other.
We encourage each
individual to do all that they can, and stand ready to support them with a helping hand and an encouraging
word when they reach beyond their normal believed limits. To quote the young man in the wheelchair,
" We are not
nearly as handicapped
as most people make us."
