Bo Statham: Through BHH, lives changed, hearts healed

Many children have emotional issues, experience family problems, may have been abused or neglected, are diagnosed as ADHD positive or endure any number of other personal challenges and issues.

Between Horses and Humans, or BHH, is a non-profit organization teaching leadership through horsemanship to such at-risk and troubled children. The mission of BHH is to provide youth a place to learn leadership and life skills through horsemanship. The program builds leadership and communication skills and assists participants with social, personal and emotional issues. All of this is accomplished by the children learning to groom, care for and ride the horses.

LIVES CHANGED, HEARTS HEALED

All activities are offered free to participants. Through the support of generous donors no child is excluded. Every amount donated is used exclusively to operate the program.

Barbara Slade is president of BHH and its highly-qualified program director. Her equestrian experience spans 50 years, 40 of those as a professional horseman. She donates her administration hours and all other time to the program.

Of equal importance, Barbara is a skilled and dedicated teacher. It’s a pleasure to observe her imparting her knowledge of horses in an interactive exchange that commands the children’s interest, and, as she says, leading them “to experience the magic of horses.” She praises their learning and improvement but also demands discipline and safety in a positive and calm manner.

Four part-time instructors and 23 program volunteers generously assist Barbara, and many other volunteers help with events.

The program is conducted at Maddi’s Friesian Ranch in Gardnerville, which is owned by Ruth Page and Greg Walsh. Barbara says Ruth and Greg have embraced BHH, and it would be difficult to conduct the program without their generosity.

BHH students gain self-confidence, trust, courage, compassion, leadership and communication skills. Hundreds and hundreds of children have benefited from the horsemanship program of Between Horses and Humans. It’s amazing to witness the changes in their lives, as expressed in their own words:

“How sad I was until I started working with the horses.”

“Horses helped me not be bossy with my friends.”

“Horses make me my true self.”

“Horses will always stop your loneliness.”

“Horses make me happy.”

A Garden Party Gala for the benefit of Between Horses and Humans will be held on June 4 at 4 p.m. at 2332 Main St., Genoa. There will be cocktails and wine, music, dancing and a gourmet dinner. Fun raffles and silent auctions offer interesting rewards. And participating students will tell of their experiences with BHH. Formal attire is suggested.

Tickets are $65 per person and may be purchased now by check to Between Horses and Humans, P.O. Box 6459, Gardnerville, 89460 or online at betweenhorsesandhumans.yapsody.com. BHH is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and donations may be tax deductible pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code.

A great time will be had by all, and your support will be greatly appreciated.

Bo Statham is a retired lawyer, congressional aide and businessman. He lives in Gardnerville and can be reached at bostatham@me.com.