1. 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

2. 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!

3. 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?

4. 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

5. 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!!!

6. 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

7. 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.

8. When dreams, faith and reality collide

9. 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

13. Plan an opening date/event
Market to your community through social media, 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)

14. 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.

15. Bright Star Ranch INC
981 Stubbs Vinson Road
Monroe, LA
Please visit our Facebook page at Bright Star Ranch LA