With little trunk control, Jeff can’t sit or walk on his own. But when he’s on top of his horse at Kopper Top Life Learning Center, he’s the king of the world. He sits up high, and laughs and jokes, all while working hard to build core strength, confidence and love for animals.
“Kopper Top has been a great provider of encouragement, friendship and love,” says Jeff’s mom. “In the course of the 15 years he’s ridden here, they’ve helped him build physical, mental and emotional strength.”
Nestled in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, Kopper Top is dedicated to providing quality therapy in a non-clinical atmosphere. By using animal-assisted recreational therapy, they empower, enable and enhance the quality of life for individuals with special needs.
Founder Deborah Meridith says the animals are the key to the program’s success. “When they ride a horse, they get to control an animal that’s 1,000 to 1,2000 pounds,” she explains. “Knowing they can do that gives them the confidence to know they can accomplish other things, too.”
