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Halloween fun in the riding stable: SOS children experience an unforgettable day
A colorful Halloween experience day at the Gut Ottmannach riding stable thrilled children from the SOS Children's Village. Together with soldiers, they learned how to treat horses with respect.
Halloween fun in the riding stable: SOS children experience an unforgettable day
Last weekend, the Gut Ottmannach riding stable on Magdalensberg transformed its area into a colorful and spooky Halloween world. The young guests of the SOS Children's Village, together with the committed members of “Soldiers with Hearts”, were able to experience an extraordinary day that was all about horses. And while the children dressed up as llamas, cowgirls and other fantastic characters, there were plenty of activities waiting for them.
The excitement was palpable when the children got to know the horses. They were able to brush the animals, paint them and even lead them through a course prepared by carers. The eventful day was rounded off with a buffet and musical accompaniment, which created a cheerful atmosphere.
Gift for the children
Imrana Jashari, Vice President of Soldiers with Heart, expressed her enthusiasm about the event and emphasized its importance: "This campaign is particularly close to my heart because it strengthens the connection between people and nature. Horses are incredibly sensitive animals and they give the children a feeling of trust and freedom."
Feedback from those affected showed that the children literally flew over the obstacles, which reflected the joy and enthusiasm on their faces. Marlene Gutzelnig, the operator of the riding stable, emphasized how important such programs are in strengthening the children's self-confidence. “It's about them recognizing their worth and being able to treat each other better as a result,” she said.
Karo Martischnigg, who brought the Friesian gelding Roy with her, shared her philosophy about treating animals with respect: “It is important to me that the children learn to trust each other and treat animals with respect.” Jana-Lena, a young rider, also expressed her affection: “Working with children and seeing how their eyes light up is a feeling that I would like to take with them in my future career.”
Joy and self-confidence
Alexandra Krassnitzer, family educator at the SOS Children's Village, was deeply touched by the children's smiling faces. “The smile you see is the greatest gift you can receive,” she said, adding that the campaign made it clear to the children that there are people outside the children's village who believe in them and support them.
John Patrick Platzer, President of Soldiers with a Heart, expressed his gratitude to everyone involved. “Our mission is to show children that they are not alone,” he emphasized. He was particularly touched by the fact that the supervisors from the Gut Ottmannach riding stable had also brought their children with them. “It’s remarkable to see how everyone got so involved and together made an unforgettable day possible.”
Platzer praised the volunteers: “It is people like them who achieve great things in their free time and out of pure charity.” The commitment of this unique initiative will be remembered and will probably continue to inspire future generations.