Welcome To
"Changing Our Lives Together"
COLT has been changing lives through the use of Equine Assisted Substance Abuse Prevention since 1997.
Originally founded in Spokane, Wa., COLT established a COLT Idaho program in 2009.
COLT HAS CHANGED HUNDREDS OF LIVES, ONE HOOF-BEAT AT A TIME!
Originally founded in Spokane, Wa., COLT established a COLT Idaho program in 2009.
COLT HAS CHANGED HUNDREDS OF LIVES, ONE HOOF-BEAT AT A TIME!
OUR MISSION: COLT sincerely embraces the challenges of adolescence with an optimistic, unique approach. Dedicated volunteers, community professionals, prevention education and magical equine companions engage youth in a productive, learning environment beyond their streets.
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WHO WE ARE?
COLT is an effective prevention program comprised of a group of individuals that volunteer their time, talents and experience to area youth in an equine assisted learning environment. Some volunteers are experienced horse professionals and/or advocates, while others are concerned, community professionals or members that bring a variety of experience and dedication to the program. COLT follows a protocol of Prevention Principles & Components, and is a program under the "Equine Assisted Substance Abuse Prevention, Inc." (EASAP) nonprofit organization. The core curriculum includes educational and preventative components that reduce damaging risk factors while providing vital protective factors, (developmental assets). |
WHY HORSES?
A horse will react with fear to any expression of anger, bullying, or frustration, functioning as a mirror in which youth can immediately see the effect of their emotions and attitudes. They are able to gain insight into their emotions and behavior and have a non-threatening opportunity to quickly find a more productive, positive way of interacting. Many will protest, “the horse is being stubborn”, or “the horse won’t go”. The lesson we learn is that when ‘we’ change ourselves, the horses respond accordingly. COLT's focal point is not polished ‘showmanship’ skills. Rather, the horse and child engage in a rewarding and enriching relationship that includes the academics of horses and fundamental riding, handling and safety skills. |
WHAT ARE THE RESULTS?
Accomplishing a task involving ‘working as a team’ with the horse instills confidence & offers powerful metaphors for dealing with challenging circumstances in life. Furthermore, barns and farms require a lot of physical activity; consequently they are ideal surroundings for children to thrive not only emotionally, but physically. Because horses are bigger than people, respect takes place instantaneously. Boundaries and limits make sense! It encourages children to follow directions, do things in a practical order, work as a group, focus and finish the job! In a world where instant fulfillment & the easy way are desired, horses necessitate youth to engage in physical & mental work to achieve their goal - an important attribute in all aspects of life |
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“COLT has educational components and I see that stay over into schools. It’s a wonderful program. I’ve seen marked improvement in students’ grades & attendance, which tells me the program is successfully building responsibility. I’ve even observed students helping out others without being asked.” ~ Carrie Nygaard; Kamiah Middle School Principal * Oct. 1, 2009; The Clearwater Progress: “Changing Lives With Horse Medicine.”
“The COLT Program not only teaches alcohol & drug resistance skills, it also enhances academic skills & teaches positive social & life skills that will assist youth to make positive choices throughout their lives. The equine program adds a critical therapeutic value, inspiring & connecting youth in ways that traditional programs can’t. COLT creates long-term effects on our community by teaching youth the skills they need to become productive adults.” ~J. Michael Bundy, PhD; Kamiah School Dist. Superintendent. * March 10, 2010; Quoted from Letter of Support for COLT
Changing Our Lives Together is a non-profit program operating under "Equine Assisted Substance Abuse Prevention, Inc." 501c3# 32-0232614
Mailing Address: COLT * 119 Liberty Reach Rd. * Clearwater, Idaho 835552 * Phone#: 208-926-7240
Mailing Address: COLT * 119 Liberty Reach Rd. * Clearwater, Idaho 835552 * Phone#: 208-926-7240