WHITE BEAR - In the summer of 2022, White Bear hosted a successful horse dance ceremony, and as a result, a horse therapy program was developed to support youth at risk.
The sessions started March 2023, will wind down at the end of June, but based on continuing interest, it may start again in the fall.
Tanya Littlechief is one of six counsellors that advocate for tradition and culture. Elders and White Bear community members recognized that horses have been underutilized. Traditionally, horses are described as a spiritual being and were used in people’s lives to support anxiety, depression and improve social skills.
Littlechief, elders, and White Bear community members recognized that the youth needed support getting grounded and staying on “the good road”. The program is based on a foundation of values, generosity, mastery, belonging and independence embodied in a circle of courage.
Littlechief started asking around and reached out to community members, and eventually was put in the path of Ochapowace First Nation Chief Shelly Bear, who introduced Ann Dusterbeck, owner of Olys Ranch located at Chacachas First Nation.
Transportation was arranged with Sondra Shepherd, and Kyle Big Eagle was hired to transport the participants to the ranch.
The program was held once a week for 10 weeks, for 12 youths between the ages of 12-17 and a group of 12 over the age of 18.
Littlechief extends a thank you to the prevention committee as well as the entire Indigenous community for supporting the role of horses in their culture.
A horse dance ceremony will be hosted at White Bear First Nation this summer.
