At MaudCare, we believe meaningful support starts with understanding each person’s interests, strengths and goals. Our programs are designed to create opportunities for participants to build confidence, develop independence, connect with others and enjoy experiences that are meaningful to them.
For Joey, one of his favourite parts of the week is the Thursday program at Kitty’s Farm. Each week, Joey has the opportunity to spend time with the horses, feed them, pat them and continue building his confidence around animals in a supportive and familiar environment.
Before visiting the farm, Joey often buys carrots for the horses. When he walks towards the paddock, the horses can see him from a mile away and begin running towards him. It is such a beautiful moment to watch and all five horses look forward to Joey’s weekly visits.
One horse in particular, Marco, has become a memorable part of Joey’s experience. When asked what he likes about the horses, Joey shared:
“I like that Marco doesn’t share his food with the other horses.”
Joey enjoys feeding the horses and giving them grass, apples and carrots. He also likes talking to them, patting them, brushing them, leading them and allowing them to follow him. During his visits, Joey also enjoys patting the dogs and spending time around the farm environment.
Kitty’s horse, Milo, is also a special part of the program, with participants having the opportunity to ride him. Joey shared that he enjoys riding Milo and watching the horses behave well.
When asked how the horses make him feel, Joey said:
“They make me feel excited. I’m excited because they’re loyal and friendly.”
Joey also shared that going to the farm makes him feel calm because being with the horses helps him feel relaxed. When the horses run towards him, Joey said:
“I feel brave when the horses run towards me. They run really fast.”
Through the equine program, Joey has learnt how to care for horses and how to meet new people. He has also developed important skills around confidence, responsibility, communication, patience and safety around animals.
Joey is supported on Thursdays by Shantelle and sometimes by Luke and Anthony. With encouragement and consistency, Joey continues to build his skills and enjoy positive experiences at the farm each week.
When asked what advice he would give to someone who has never been around horses before, Joey shared some very thoughtful tips. He said he would ask them if they would like to come, show them how to give the horses grass and remind them to never walk behind a horse. Joey would also tell them to go slowly towards the horses, let the horse sniff their hand before touching, and speak softly with no screaming or yelling.
Joey is also proud of the many things he contributes to at MaudCare. He shared that he is proud of his gardening, checking the eggs, giving Daisy a bath, being a proud member of Geelong and being part of MaudCare for about a year and a half.
When asked if he would like to keep going to Kitty’s Farm, Joey said:
“Yes, I would like to keep going to Kitty’s Farm. I like going there because it’s fun.”
Joey’s connection with the horses is a beautiful example of how meaningful experiences can support confidence, calmness, responsibility and connection. We are proud to support Joey as he continues to enjoy the Thursday farm program, build his skills and create special memories with the horses at Kitty’s Farm.
