The Healing Horses Organization and the West Desert Back Country Horsemen have teamed up to raise money for Healing Horses, a non-profit organization in Tooele that helps adults and children with physical problems ranging from multiple sclerosis to any type of joint pain.

The groups will sponsor a fund-raising horse ride up Settlement Canyon this Saturday. The ride is open to anyone.

There are some donated horses but for the most part riders will have to bring their own horse. There will be a guided trail ride beginning past the gate in Settlement Canyon, and there will be signs directing riders to the trailhead. Riding starts at 1 p.m. and takes just over two hours, but riders are free to begin as early as 8 a.m. Following the ride, there will be a free dinner sponsored by the West Desert Back Country Horsemen.

Each rider is sponsored and all money goes towards helping the Healing Horses foundation. Riders are also asked to gather donations and find sponsors for the cause. There will be a various prizes, including $150 in cash for the rider who collects the most money.  

“We are having this event to raise awareness of Healing Horses,” said Barb Spector. “What we really want is to earn enough money for an indoor arena because right now we can only ride during the summer and having an indoor arena will be a huge leap for our program.”

The organization hopes to raise enough money to purchase land for such an arena, but ultimately the money will go towards the program, helping to pay for expenses such as keeping and maintaining the horses, and any veterinarian bills that come up.

Healing Horses was founded by Spector, a multiple sclerosis patient for 28 years. Spector found that riding horses helped to relax her muscles and keep her walking. Now, Healing Horses offers “therapeutic riding,” which helps to increase mobility, flexibility, and relieve pain. The bond between horse and rider also aids the healing process. Volunteers help by walking alongside the horses.

For more information about Healing Horses visit www.healinghorseutah.org.