Description and Impact

The state of Oaxaca is one of the poorest in Mexico and subsequently it is lacking in social and human services for its citizens, especially for its young ones. One of the largest groups that is lacking in services is those individuals with disabilities such as Down’s Syndrome, Autism, ADD, Muscular Dystrophy and various other disabilities. Children with disabilities in Mexico have very few places to go to for rehabilitation services and subsequently the need for therapeutic facilities is very high. This organization is very unique in that it is able to provide physical, occupational and labor therapy for its patients with the help of several very friendly horses! One of only 12 equine therapy centers in the whole of Mexico, the organization works several days a week in a small community outside of Oaxaca city and serves more than 40 children ranging from the age of 2-17. 

What is the overall goal of the project? The goal of this project is to provide high quality equine therapy to children of all ages with a range of mental, emotional and physical disabilities. Through the medium of equine therapy, the organization is able to teach and provide rehabilitation services to many children in the community and surrounding areas.  The center provides a place for children to learn, develop, be accepted and stretch and work their muscles by receiving therapy on the horses. Additionally, the organization does all that it can to encourage the families of the disabled child to participate in the therapeutic process by including them in therapy sessions, giving them courses on dealing with a disabled child and much more. Aside from the therapeutic aspect, the association also works in the community to improve the standard of living for all its members by supporting a local bakery so that it may sell its goods at a reduced price, establishing clothing drives and is also an outlet for a local food bank. The founder of the organization is very passionate about providing therapy for children with disabilities as well as ensuring that the families of these children have the means to properly support their disabled child. 

What's Included

• Homestay with a carefully-screened Mexican family
• Daily meals (you will receive three meals a day)
• Project funding and support
• Spanish language classes
• Onsite transportation, airport pickup and a stipend for return travel
• Health and travel insurance
• Cultural and adventure excursions
• 24-hour support from ProWorld Mexcio staff
• Access to Casa ProWorld Mexico – unlimited filtered water, wireless internet

What's Not Included

• Airfare, Visa and Airport Tax (if applicable)