The Arc of Racine - School to Community Transition Project Mentoring

Mentoring Experience Benefits Both

Submitted by: Peggy Foreman, Transition Coordinator, The Arc of Racine County, Inc.

When Katy was asked if STC program participant, Stephanie, could visit her at the barn where she boards and trains her young horse, she was a little hesitant. But after meeting Stephanie and sharing what they have in common – horses – they both look forward to more visits together.

The mentoring experience was arranged so that Stephanie could see how another teen might provide daily care and training for her horse. Stephanie, who is 18 and attending high school, is receiving individual assistance through the Arc of Racine County’s STC Project.

Stephanie has been taking therapeutic riding lessons since she was four years old. Her love of horses has heightened her interest in exploring career opportunities in animal care. During her visit with Katy, she practiced how to safely handle a young horse by leading him into the barn and assisting with grooming and foot care. She also learned about his daily care needs including feeding, training and stall cleaning.