Glade Run Offers Therapeutic Animal, Horticultural Therapies for Special Needs Children

Children living with social, physical and mental challenges, can find nature-themed treatment at Glade Run Adventures in Zelienople.

According to the Pittsburgh Tribune Review, programs are individualized for children of all ages and special needs levels, including some adults who are facing challenges and an 18-month-old who uses therapy to aid in balance and gross motor control.

Middlesex resident Liz Ward, whose three sons attend throughout the year, described the program to the Trib as a chance for therapy that is effective yet “fun.”  

The year-round therapeutic animal, horticultural and agricultural therapies are offered through Glade Run Lutheran Services, a Zelienople non-profit that provides behavioral health, education and social services.

Julie Wahlenmayer, Glade Run Adventures director, who has been working there for 17 years, told the Trib the program gives children a chance to interact with a subject, such as horses, that is accepting, "will listen to you, and they have no opinion as to any of your problems."

"They're very non-judgmental,” Wahlenmayer told the Trib.

Ward said her children don't really fit in with regular school activities, such as sports. The program offers her 10- and 7-year-old, who have autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, and her 9-year-old, who has a mood disorder, a chance to be part of something, especially when participating in the group functions during Glade Run Adventure's summer camps held June through August.

One of the most used programs is equine therapy, which includes feeding, grooming, handling and exercising horses.

Carey Bailey, 24, of Evans City, who runs the animal program at Glade Run Adventures, said caring and working with the animals offers the comfort and acceptance kids need.

For those limited in mobility, for example, shetold the Trib that riding a horse can help with stretching and using muscles that they would not use otherwise.

In addition to helping those with challenges, Glade Run also offers year round horseback riding lessons for the “typical population.”

Call 724-452-4453 ext. 1249, or visit www.gladerun.org for more information.