AS: Can you start by introducing yourself and telling us about your background? 

ZC: “Hi! My name is Zoe Christian, and I'm the Horse Powered Reading Facilitator at Open My World. I was born and raised in San Diego CA. I moved to Texas at the age of 18. When I was little I always knew I wanted to work with children and horses. I have worked with horses since I was a little girl. I've always loved finding creative ways to help kids learn and build confidence whether it was teaching kids how to ride or building their conference just being around them. When I discovered Horse Powered Reading, it felt like the perfect combination of two things I'm passionate about, literacy and horses.

I'm also currently part of Open My World's new PATH to Purpose pilot program, where I'm training to become a PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI). Through the program, I'm learning from some amazing instructors and gaining hands-on experience working with individuals with disabilities and other unique needs. It's been an incredible opportunity, and I love being part of a team that helps both people and horses make such a positive impact.”

AS: What was the initial inspiration for Open My World?

ZC: “Open My World was founded because of one simple belief: horses have the power to change lives. Our founder, Donna Roland, retired from teaching Special Education in California and thought she was moving to Texas to “play with her horses”, but the Universe had other plans. In 2008, she started Open My World because she wanted to create a safe place where people of all abilities could experience the physical, emotional, and social benefits that horses bring.

Today, we're proud to continue her mission by making equine-assisted services accessible to children, adults, seniors, and families throughout our community.”

AS: Tell us about Horse Powered Reading and Stable Stories! How do these programs support literacy in our community?

ZC: “Horse Powered Reading is a unique program where kids work alongside our miniature horses, Thunder & Lightning, while practicing reading and literacy skills. The horses become part of the learning process, helping children build confidence, problem-solving skills, comprehension, and communication. It's amazing to watch kids who may struggle with reading in a traditional setting light up when they're learning with a Horse.

Stable Stories is our “Read to a Horse” program. Early and struggling readers of all abilities are invited to spend time reading aloud to one of our horses in a calm, welcoming environment. Horses don't judge, correct, or rush anyone, which helps many participants relax and gain confidence as readers. Both programs are especially helpful for reluctant readers, individuals with learning differences, and kids who simply need a little extra encouragement. Plus, they get to spend time with some pretty awesome horses!”

Registration is required for both programs; links can be found here:

HORSE POWERED READING

STABLE STORIES

AS: How has Open My World changed and evolved since its inception?

ZC: “Open My World has grown quite a bit over the years. What started primarily as an adaptive program has expanded into a variety of programs that serve people of all ages and abilities.

In addition to adaptive riding lessons, we now offer Horse Powered Reading, Stable Stories, wellness retreats and our H.A.P.Y. (Hug-A-Pony) mobile outreach program where we have expanded beyond the barn by bringing Thunder & Lightning into autism, memory care and retirement centers.

As our community's needs have grown, we've continued finding new ways to use the incredible connection between horses and humans to make a difference.”

AS: How can people get involved with, volunteer with, and support Open My World?

ZC: “There's a place for everyone at Open My World! We rely on volunteers to help with lessons, assist with feeding and caring for the horses, help maintain the property, support events and fundraisers, and even help exercise our horses. You don't have to be an experienced horse person for most of our opportunities, we provide training and welcome volunteers from all backgrounds.

People can also support us through donations, sponsorships, attending events, sharing our mission on social media, or simply telling others about what we do. In fact, Thunder & Lightning are currently looking for sponsors! You can help us care for them or any of our horses by joining our CARROT CLUB for as little as $10/month.

As a nonprofit, we rely heavily on our volunteers and community supporters. Every hour volunteered, every donation, and every person who helps spread the word allows us to continue providing life-changing services to the individuals and families we serve. If you've ever wanted to make a difference while spending time around horses, we'd love to meet you! Email emily@openmyworld.org to get registered for our next orientation.”