STEPHENVILLE, TEXAS— Tarleton State University’s Equine Assisted Therapy (TREAT) will participate in the Month of the Military Child Festival on April 4 at Ft. Hood, Texas.

The program is from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and TREAT will provide horseback riding for about 4,000 children of military families. Kids of all ages will enjoy the free celebration with competitions, pony rides, a petting zoo and more.

“The happiness that shows on these kids faces is a very rewarding experience,” said TREAT director David Snyder.

Volunteers will leave from the Tarleton Equine Center at 7 a.m. with the animals and equipment and return around 7 p.m. Transportation will be provided between Stephenville and Ft. Hood, if needed.
TREAT is a therapeutic riding program that uses horseback riding as a form of physical, psychological and recreational therapy. The program also provides training for students studying animal sciences, nursing, physical education and special education.

Volunteers are still needed to assist with this event. It is a great opportunity for service and field experience hours and to give back to the community. Student organizations are welcome and encouraged to help assist the children and can use it towards community service hours.

“I have never seen students work so hard for such a long day, end up completely exhausted but eager to do it all over again as soon as possible,” Snyder said.

Everyone must bring a picture identification to have access into the military base. T-shirts, water and food will be provided for volunteers.

For more information and to sign up, contact Snyder at (254) 968-9656, or via e-mail at snyder@tarleton.edu. Include in the e-mail if you want transportation to and from the event so enough university vehicles will be available.