SHERRARD, Illinois - There's a lot of fun at New Kingdom Trailriders in Sherrard, but there's so much more.
"For me, personally, it's really emotional," said Executive Director Angie Nelson.
Nelson guides this therapy for people with special needs and life challenges. Since 1984, they've been helping folks from age three to 90-plus.
"Maybe they can't play sports," Nelson said. "This is their fun thing to do, their joy in life."
In this Gift of Giving, a portion of October sales at Necker's will go to New Kingdom Trailriders.
These horses generate plenty of joy. Mostly seniors, themselves, their bond with humans is simply remarkable.
"They don't care what you look like, what disability you have," she continued. "They don't care if you can't walk or can't talk. They're here to be one of their silent friends and help."
Horses like Jazzy help nearly 200 riders each year. Weekly sessions cost $25, which only covers a small portion of the $200,000 budget.
"We are a non-profit, so sometimes funds are tight," she said.
Generous donors and volunteers help New Kingdom Trailriders to grow.
"A lot of times, our volunteers get as much out of helping the riders and the horses as the riders do," she said.
To discover ways to volunteer or donate, check: www.nktriders.org.
The companionship between the horses and humans is very rewarding. It's helpful therapy from these noble animals.
"As long as we can keep providing these services, helping people that really want our help, we want to be able to do that," she concluded.