Living the dream: Opening a new path intl facility DEBBIE Bright-Chunn PATH INTL CERTIFIED therapeutic riding instructor and equine specialist in mental health and learning

Dreams: Thought or possible reality? How to distinguish? Does the thought keep recurring or just pass in a few days? If that dream aligns with a passion, it will continue to grow. When it is determined to be a possible reality, much research takes place to prepare. Costs must be counted. Steps need to be taken to make it happen!

Get ready individually What skills and education are needed? What steps will be taken to make the dream happen? What goals will be required in order for this to be successful? How much time will it take to complete the education? What costs will be incurred to get where you need to be? How many people will take part in your success? Is it worth the time and effort as an individual?

Education, education, education PATH International Educational Resources PATH Regional and International Conferences Workshops (PATH, CHA, EAGALA, etc.) Clinics Riding Lessons Volunteering Equine Professionals Web Resources Other Equine Therapeutic Riding Center Websites

Obstacles to getting to your dream Time limitations to commit to planning and goals Life gets in the way Physical abilities to perform the work Mental stress Difficulties meeting necessary guidelines for goals Nay-sayers and negative thinking FEAR!!!

Get Ready to Build! Find builders that will keep to a budget and time restraints Take bids and research the best builder for the task Seek financial entities to back your vision and dream (banks, investors, etc.) Organize timelines and share with the builder for timely construction Be prepared to do as much of the work as you can

Getting ready for volunteers Volunteers are the heartbeat of a therapy program Find ways to communicate to your community that you need volunteers Plan volunteer training sessions and invite to join your team Offer safety training, mounting/dismounting training, helmet use, etc. Help them develop horsemanship skills and encourage them to pursue education Mentor them to become riding instructors Understand that one person cannot do everything, including YOU! You need the help of others.

When dreams, faith and reality collide

Getting ready for horses Horse selection is so important Safe and dependable horses are necessary Training and desensitization are required Right fit for all types of riders Personality of the horse is key to meeting needs of individuals

Plan an opening date/event Market to your community through social media, email groups, texting, etc. Plan an event to have people see what the center offers Encourage a sponsorship program for riders Plan fundraising activities and speak to businesses, civic clubs, schools, etc. Make it known to the community that you wish to provide services to those with special needs Keep your website/page up-to-date and active (keep your name out there for all to see)

Seems like a lot? Don’t go into this dream without knowing all the work If it is your passion, EVERYTHING you do is worth it all! And remember, You don’t have to be ready for anything. You only have to be ready for the next step God has for you to take.

Bright Star Ranch INC 981 Stubbs Vinson Road Monroe, LA 71203 318-282-9908 Please visit our Facebook page at Bright Star Ranch LA