Program Background

Giving underprivileged youth a leg up in equestrian sport!

The Leg Up Programme un, deux, trois hop! was launched in the fall of 2020 by a group of volunteers. Equestrian activities are expensive, and while the therapeutic, social, psychological and physical benefits of riding are well established (Davies and Collins, 2015; Church et. al., 2010), many children and youth simply cannot participate in a meaningful way due to the significant expenses involved. Consequently, many visible or invisible minorities, as well as economically underprivileged children have been significantly under-represented in equestrian sports.

Since 2021, over 40 youth have been sponsored through the program! Aned in the fall of 2022, the Leg Up Programme un, deux, trois, hop! was registered as a charitable organization with the Canada Revenue Agency. We can now issue receipts for income tax purposes for any in-kind or cash donations to the program.

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What The Program Offers

Each candidate selected by the impartial jury receives a total of 12 riding lessons over the summer. The coaches must be current certified Equestrian Canada coaches located in the capital region of New Brunswick. Equestrian Canada certified coaches are required to undergo regular criminal background checks and follow stringent guidelines when working with youth. They are also required to take ongoing safe sport training.

Each candidate chosen for the program also receives a safety-certified riding helmet, a pair of riding boots, and a junior membership to the New Brunswick Equestrian Association (this provides them with the required insurance to work under a coach who also has their own liability insurance). On a monthly basis, parents are also provided with a modest transportation allowance.