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So why am I fundraising for Cotswold Riding for the Disabled?
Over the last few months I have been lucky enough to get involved with the extremely dedicated team of staff, volunteers and the trustees, and see first hand how they make a difference to riders, their families, and how engaged the team of volunteers are. So I'm lacing up my trainers and taking to the streets of Cheltenham for the 10k run on September 3rd to raise awareness and funds for the fantastic work they do!
Based in the heart of Cheltenham Racecourse since 1982
Cotswold RDA offers a variety of riding and non-riding activities to more than 160 children and adults living with a disability, in a supportive and safe environment. It has a herd of 14 very special ponies.
Cotswold RDA provides a safe and friendly environment for people of all ages living with a disability. Their activities include riding and non-riding activities. They were the first group to introduce ‘Tea with a Pony’, a wonderful initiative aimed at those living with dementia, giving people the opportunity to interact with a pony whilst enjoying tea and cake.
Plans are on the horizon to expand existing facilities. This will offer extra classrooms, offices, meeting spaces, viewing areas for families, extra car parking and improved access. The charity will be launching a capital appeal very soon to help match its own funds so that this exciting project can hopefully start in 2024.
Cotswold RDA costs around £300k pa to run.
Riding lessons are heavily subsidised so that sessions remain financially accessible to all living with a disability. As a result, less than 30% of the income target is raised through lesson fees. The funding gap is closed through community fundraising initiatives, facilities hire and applications to trusts and grant-making organisations.
How Cotswold RDA makes a difference to their riders and families:
We are so grateful to all the team at Cotswold RDA for all they do to support families like ours- they help to bring hope back into our lives. Parent of a Rider
It’s the highlight of my son’s week- he is always asking when he can go and see Eric (the pony). Parent of a rider
Other ways to support Cotswold RDA:
- Give the gift of time and volunteer when you can. Volunteers are essential to the daily operation of the organisation. The more volunteers available, the more rider spaces in lessons there are. (DBS check & induction required)
- Become an annual member
- Sponsor a Pony! But which superstar in the herd will you pick?