IT was originally intended to be a rehabilitative space for injured horses.
But over the years, the Healing with Horses Foundation, located in Galla Street, Buccoo, Tobago, has also been a haven for those with special needs, holiday makers and others who simply want to commune with nature.
The foundation, which offers free equine therapy, has also been a sought-after destination for weddings, engagements, birthday celebrations, mini conferences and other gatherings.
The Prime Minister, former president Paula Mae-Weekes, ambassadors and THA chief secretaries, including current office holder Farley Augustine, were among its guests over the years.
The foundation, established by German Veronika Danzer-La Fortune, celebrates its 14th anniversary on August 26. It began in 2007 and became a registered, non-governmental organisation in 2010.
To commemorate the occasion, Danzer-La Fortune will be hosting a simple luncheon and thanksgiving ceremony at the Healing with Horses park, located a short distance away from the foundation’s administrative headquarters.
Danzer-La Fortune, who manages the foundation with her husband, Lennon, is excited about the event.
“We are inviting volunteers, students, well-wishers, sponsors and some dignitaries, like Harriet Cross (British High Commissioner), other ambassadors and politicians who have been supporting the Healing with Horses Foundation with their goodwill over the years. We will be celebrating our achievements and the community members who helped us to build this strong foundation,” he told Newsday on August 21.
Danzer-La Fortune said at the event, which is expected to run from noon to 2 pm, people who have contributed significantly to the development of the foundation, would be presented with trophies, medals and small hampers.
[caption id="attachment_1104635" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Healing With Horses turns 14 on August 26. -[/caption]
She was especially grateful to Tobago East MP Ayanna Webster-Roy, whom she said, got permission from the authorities to allow the horses to graze at the nearby Golden Grove Estate.
“This is a really great initiative because each horse needs about an acre to graze and we have about 13 presently.”
Danzer-La Fortune believes it is very important to show appreciation and gratitude.
“Without that, I would not be where I am. It helps me in the morning to get up. When I start counting my blessings. When I start giving thanks for life, for health and strength, it doesn’t matter how I felt before. I instantly feel better.”
For her humanitarian efforts over the years, Danzer-La Fortune was awarded the German Order of Merit during a simple function at the park on December 4, 2023.
German Ambassador Dr Christophe Eick presented the award, noting that Danzer-La Fortune visited Tobago on vacation several years ago and made the island her home.
In response, Danzer-La Fortune thanked her country for the acknowledgment.
“I would have never expected or thought of me having one day this very special Order of Merit, which
