Poundmaker Cree Nation therapy program helping people heal through horses

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As interest grew, Poundmaker Cree Nation partnered with the family, expanding what began as a small grassroots effort into a year-round program.  

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BEYOND THE BARN

Poundmaker Cree Nation therapy program helping people heal through horses

1h ago

“My overall goal is to get more people involved with horses and teach them the real meaning behind them,” she said. “They help you so much more than just making you happy when you ride. I believe horses teach you so much about yourself that you don’t know.” 

That connection also became a source of stability in Cameron’s own life. Whenever she needed to clear her mind, she said she would saddle up and ride. 

“I feel like because I had horses in my life and been around them this whole time, that it led me away from addictions that ran really deep into family roots and into the reserves,” Cameron said. “One of my main goals with the youth, is to show them that there’s not just partying and drinking out there. We see it a lot, and we don’t see enough horse people out there.” 

For Cameron and her family, the greatest reward is watching participants gain confidence around the horses. 

She recalled one student with autism who was initially too nervous to ride and instead spent time feeding the horses. With help, he climbed into the saddle and began riding. Now, Cameron said, he attends through the school program, gets on after the horse is saddled and rides independently – something she said surprised school staff because he typically requires one-on-one support. 

“For us, it’s very rewarding that what we do really means something. To see it bloom like that and to watch him come happy … that’s a lot.” 

For Cameron, those moments reflect the purpose of the program: giving people a place to connect, heal and discover new possibilities through horsemanship. She hopes it continues to show young people there is more waiting for them beyond the challenges they may face.

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alyssa.rudolph@pattisonmedia.com