24 members today were present on Zoom to hear our guest speaker, Suzanne Latchford-Kulker.

Suzanne operates Healing With Horses, now with bunnies, goats and guinea pigs for those who do not want to ride or are afraid of horses, 100 animals in total. She started 10 years ago to help children with autism and now conducts 20-25 therapy sessions per week. It is a registered charity. With Rotary’s financial help last year she started taking the small animals to nursing homes in the area. This offering continues now with requests coming in that pay for their visits.

She explained why horses are therapy animals. Horses have to know what is going on around them. They can tell our emotions, almost before we do, and they react to what they sense. They provide a physical and mental benefit to the people interacting with them.

Another new program is a Farm Animal Introduction for those who have never been on a farm or even seen egg production. They have 20 horses that live outside all the time in the 10 acre pasture.

Their clients come from four Community Living, Pathways to Independence, Passport and private families. If Rotarians want to visit, their website has online booking; Friday and Saturday is best. President Ken asked Christine to arrange a visit for any one wanting to go there.

The annual budget varies with what grants can be secured. Last year a $96,000 grant from the Parrott Foundation enabled them to close in the ends of the barn so they can work year-around and other improvements.

Ken invited them to participate in the Canada Day parade. They could ride on our float if they wished and ride their horses. She reminded everyone that they are at the Wellington Farmers Market each Saturday.

Club Business

July 7 is the 80th Anniversary of the Rotary Club of Picton. Members were encouraged to wish them well. John Inwood is a Past President of this Club.

Trudy gave an update on the Syrian family who suffered the fire in their home. They have found interim housing to the end of August while they look for a permanent home. Their handicapped son Abudi’s needs are paramount in choosing a new home. In finding an interim commercial kitchen to conduct their business, they have been told to pay to use the kitchen in the Wellington Community Centre. Councillor Corey Englesdorfer may be lobbying the County to wave this fee. Their son, Ahmed, who is graduating this year from Grade 8 and had his suit lost in the fire, has been donated a new suit by Lafferty of Belleville.

Margo reported that the Gofundly money target for the family has been reached.

Trudy also reported on the delivery of Sharon Campbell’s phonebook and Honorary Membership plaque. At Hugh’s suggestion, Trudy made a voice recording of greeting to Sharon. Sharon and Hugh loved the book and the voice recording. Trudy told members that she would record anyone else who would like to send Sharon a greeting.

The golf tournament has sold out and we have $2,300 in hole sponsors. The two hole-in-one sponsors are secured. One more golfer is needed. Participants are urged to get their fees paid in to Trudy by e-transfer or cheque. Christine will manage the putting contest and Mike is the scoremaster.

Christine reported that the D&D book sponsors will be recognized in The Times tomorrow.