PAID ADVERTISEMENT High Hopes Therapeutic Riding improves lives through horse and human interactions BY LAURIAN CIMINO SPONSORED In November 2005, I walked through the doors of High Hopes Therapeutic Riding Center, a hidden gem nestled in Old Lyme where I was given an opportunity to overcome fear and reach my highest potential. Achieving this desire happened because of an encourag- ing and skilled staff, numerous volunteers, brave riders who have their own challenges, and a team of incredible horses. A sense of belonging quickly emerged as I fell in love with the place... the smell of the hay in the barn; the dried soil brushed off the horse; fur covered my clothes allowing me to take home a little bit of nature; sweep- ing became therapeutic as I put my whole self into the task forgetting my troubles. I started as a side walker to the riders then learned how to lead horses for classes. High Hopes is actively seeking new vol- unteers to assist with their programs. There is something for every person with and without horse experience. Each volunteer takes something different away with them. I became more self-confident. What might it be for you? If interested in volunteering, please contact Hayley Plas at 860-434-1974, ext. 132 or hplas@highhopestr.org. PAID ADVERTISEMENT High Hopes Therapeutic Riding improves lives through horse and human interactions BY LAURIAN CIMINO SPONSORED In November 2005 , I walked through the doors of High Hopes Therapeutic Riding Center , a hidden gem nestled in Old Lyme where I was given an opportunity to overcome fear and reach my highest potential . Achieving this desire happened because of an encourag- ing and skilled staff , numerous volunteers , brave riders who have their own challenges , and a team of incredible horses . A sense of belonging quickly emerged as I fell in love with the place ... the smell of the hay in the barn ; the dried soil brushed off the horse ; fur covered my clothes allowing me to take home a little bit of nature ; sweep- ing became therapeutic as I put my whole self into the task forgetting my troubles . I started as a side walker to the riders then learned how to lead horses for classes . High Hopes is actively seeking new vol- unteers to assist with their programs . There is something for every person with and without horse experience . Each volunteer takes something different away with them . I became more self - confident . What might it be for you ? If interested in volunteering , please contact Hayley Plas at 860-434-1974 , ext . 132 or hplas@highhopestr.org .