Horseback therapy for children with autism

Members of New Hanover County’s Gang Task Force helped kids with autism hop on horses for the very first time Saturday.

Horseback riding has proven to be therapeutic for many children with autism, while boosting their self-esteem and trust in others.

The Gang Task Force is a youth group, aimed at finding healthy, recreational activities in the area that keep young people off the streets.

“Just seeing how happy they are, showing you can do anything, no matter who you are, no matter what size of shape,” said Sade’e Weatherby of the NHC Gang Task Force.

The kids learned basic barn chores, like how to groom the horses and take care of the stables.