From the Classroom to the Barn—Students Discover Service

Ride On St. Louis recently welcomed nine 8th students from St. Margaret Mary Alacoque School for a special visit to the barn. The students are currently preparing for Confirmation in the Catholic Church and are exploring organizations in the community that serve others and put faith into action. Ride On St. Louis has been honored to host St. Margaret Mary Alacoque visits for many years as part of their Confirmation preparation and character building activities. These visits are designed not only to introduce our work, but also to help young people see how their own gifts and talents can be used to serve others and live a Christ-centered life. Through our outreach programs, Ride On St. Louis regularly offers tours, presentations, and hands-on experiences for youth and student groups of many organizations across the community.

During their time at the barn, the students learned about equine-assisted services and the ways horses help support individuals with disabilities. Staff also shared information about disability services more broadly, as well as the many benefits participants experience while attending programs at Ride On St. Louis.

The visit included several hands-on learning opportunities. Students examined real horse hooves—cadaver specimens used to help explain hoof anatomy and care—before meeting one of our horses, Ghost. For many students, this was their first time being so close to a horse. As Ghost walked into the barn, smiles spread quickly! One by one, students stepped forward to greet him. Some approached with curiosity, others with a little hesitation, but each was met with encouragement from their classmates. Soon the barn was filled with laughter and cheer as students took turns petting Ghost and experiencing the calm presence that horses naturally bring.

Small moments like these are an important part of our outreach efforts. While students learn about horses, equine-assisted services, and the work we do, they are also invited to reflect on how they can develop the gifts of charity, compassion, kindness, and service in their own lives. By sharing what happens at Ride On St. Louis, we hope to inspire the next generation to look for ways, both big and small, that they can give back to their community and help others.