DATE: 12/14/05

WRITER/CONTACT: Pam Bryant (803) 553-7705

Clemson partnership helps youth learn more about themselves

PICKENS -- A new Clemson University partnership with a Pickens County horse farm will give many youth from across the state their first experience with horses. Clemson University’s Youth Learning Institute (YLI) in Pickens, is working with Eden Farms, a family-owned and -operated horse farm in Marietta, to incorporate equine therapy as a component of its youth development programs.

From academically-talented youth who attend weekend programs at YLI headquarters in Pickens, to summer campers and at-risk youth participating in year-round, residential programs, YLI expects to serve a wide range of youth groups through academic programs held at Eden Farms.

Already, students from the W.W. Long Youth Development Center (YDC), an alternative placement facility for non-violent juvenile offenders operated by YLI in Aiken, have successfully completed a three -day, two-night camping trip and field study at the horse farm. Students received an introduction to horses, riding lessons, horse care and trail rides.

The program received high marks from students, many who had never had an up-close experience with horses.

One male YDC student commented, “I had a good experience at Eden Farms.  I learned a lot about horses and also got to ride them.  When we were there we got to go camping as well, so I also learned more about surviving in the wilderness.  I enjoyed Eden Farms and if I could go back I would.”

Jorge Calzadilla, YLI executive director, said, “There’s a world of opportunity to serve young people through our partnership with Eden Farms. We believe the academic experiences we create for youth in our programs can make a powerful impact – not only teaching youth more about horses, but more about themselves.”

Amy Goudelock, Eden Farms operator, expects the partnership with YLI to yield positive results for youth who participate in programs at the farm.

“Eden Farms is a place where horse lovers of any age, experience or ability can come for relaxation, healing, and fun. For more than 5 years, we have been committed to providing quality programs, with a special interest in creating great experiences for young people. Our partnership with Clemson through the Youth Learning Institute will help move us forward in achieving that goal,” said Goudelock.   

For more information about YLI youth development programs, visit online at www.clemson.edu/yli or contact Pam Bryant at (803) 553-7705.

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