An Introduction to
Therapeutic Riding
A Program of
OPAF and the First Clinics
Dan McKeever
(1910-1998)
McKeever’s First Ride celebrates the life and legacy of Dan McKeever. A pioneer in the orthotic and prosthetic field, Dan understood the needs and challenges faced by amputees. He pushed for technological advances and encouraged these men and women to defy the odds and reach for their dreams.
As a Colonel in the Army during WWII, Dan developed a deep respect for soldiers especially those wounded while serving their country. He would have certainly been proud of those who participate in McKeever’s First Ride Clinics and the Horses for Heroes Programs across America.
Dan McKeever had a keen mind, a hearty laugh, and a big heart. A graduate of Georgia Tech, he received the Distinguished Alumni Service Award and was inducted into the Engineering Hall of Fame.
Through his confidence and compassion, Dan enabled others to tackle problems and overcome obstacles. His legacy will live on through McKeever’s First Ride as amputees experience the physical and emotional benefits of adaptive riding and equine activities. We intend to celebrate his life and the human spirit.
Join us! Won’t you?
A day to enjoy horses and celebrate adaptive riding and horse care
for FUN, FELLOWSHIP and FITNESS!
McKeever’s First Ride
Mission Statement
Our Mission is to showcase the powerful physical and emotional benefits of working with horses
´ to individuals in the O & P community
´ to amputees of any age
´ to wounded warriors
And to children and adults faced with physical challenges or spinal cord injuries.
With the goal of promoting
´ personal achievement
´ physical fitness
´ social interaction
What Are Equine AssistedActivites andTherapies?
Equine-Assisted Activities are mounted and unmounted activites with horses that can foster balance, core strength, andmental well-being.
Equine-Assisted Therapies involve riding or interacting with a horse for Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, or Psychotherapy.
Even a single session of equine-assisted therapy can profoundly impact recovery, well-being, and health!
To learn more about centers near you providing these opportunities go to www.narha.org
OPAF is the official philanthropy of the United States Orthotic and Prosthetic community. It was founded in 1995 to support the Paralympic Games and it has gone on to develop and implement world class adaptive sports/recreational clinics for amputees and those with physical challenges.
´
These clinics include:
First Volley™ (Tennis)
First Dive™ (Scuba)
First Swing (Golf)
First Swim™
First Dance™
and
McKeever’s First Ride™
First Clinics are offered at NO CHARGE to clinic participants.
OPAF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supported by donations large and small.
Your donation is tax-deductible and greatly appreciated.
For more information go to www.opfund.org
or call OPAF at 215.752.5756.