The ARA Foundation and Toro build sensory riding path for B.C. therapeutic equestrian centre

By
Heavy Equipment Guide Staff
September 20, 2023

PRDA is a not-for-profit, therapeutic equestrian riding centre dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with a wide range of abilities. ARA Foundation

The American Rental Association (ARA) Foundation, in partnership with The Toro Company Foundation, has completed a community impact project in Langley, British Columbia, Canada, to benefit Pacific Riding for Developing Abilities (PRDA). PRDA is a not-for-profit, therapeutic equestrian riding centre dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with a wide range of abilities.

On September 6 and September 7, volunteers from all three organizations worked together to improve two indoor riding arenas, create a sensory riding path – a key new component to the therapy program – and trench in the paddock area to provide an electrical conduit so the electrical cords are underground, improving safety for staff and volunteers.

"It was wonderful to see rental members donating equipment and their time to improve the facilities at PRDA. Each project had a significant impact on enhancing the quality of the experience for the individuals served and gave ARA members networking opportunities and a chance to gain new skills while giving back to the community," said Judson McNeil, ARA Foundation director of programs and fundraising.

To complete the work at PRDA, more than 30 volunteers from ARA, The Toro Company Foundation, and PRDA staff moved 1,800 pounds of arena footing material and resurfaced the two riding areas, over a two-day period. Others painted the extensive baseboards and created the sensory path. All projects required the use of different equipment provided by local rental stores.

"We are beyond grateful for the generous support from ARA and The Toro Company Foundation for the significant impact they have made in support of PRDA riders," said Erin Julihn, PRDA director of operations. "Each of the completed projects significantly supports the therapeutic riding experience of PRDA riders, empowering the PRDA staff and volunteers to best serve each one's individual needs."

The PRDA project is the second community impact project the ARA Foundation has completed in partnership with The Toro Company Foundation in 2023. The next project is planned for September 27 in Bigfork, Montana.