Keegan Bethards

Major: Kinesiology and Health
Company/Organization: One Heart Equestrian Therapy
Company/Organization website: https://www.onehearthorses.org/
Destination: Ames, Iowa
Timeframe: Spring 2022
Advisor/Coordinator Email: dpower

Responsibilities

One Heart Equestrian Therapy is a facility in North Ames that provides therapeutic services to individuals with mental, cognitive, and physical disabilities. Through this internship, I have provided assistance in programs for children and adults with special needs, created marketing materials for the organization, helped manage the volunteer base through email inquiries and social media, and participated in the registration process for the organization. Additionally, I provided aid in event planning, managing and evaluating. I also assisted in basic office duties such as filing, contacting clients regarding classes, organizing, etc.

Accomplishments

During this internship, I helped with the registration process and getting participants enrolled. I enjoyed being in contact with potential clients and their families, along with participants who have been going to One Heart for years. I was so excited to get to the barn and meet all the participants and put a face to the name that I have met on paper (through physician's releases, medical histories, etc.) My greatest accomplishment during this internship would be helping to get people to the One Heart facility to take part in the amazing services that One Heart provides. Through their sessions, One Heart is motivated to provide enjoyment, progress, and rehabilitation and I am so glad to have been able to help play a role.

Learning experience

I learned a lot during my internship from fellow co-workers, my supervisor, volunteers, clients, and even the horses. Most importantly, trust plays a huge role in relationships-- even with human and equine interactions. Also, everyone wants to feel like a somebody, so taking extra time to get to know your volunteers, clients, and families will make everyone feel like they belong and enjoy their time with your organization.

What advice would you give?

My advice for future students would be to step outside of your comfort zone. I never thought I would be around horses for a kinesiology-related job, but here I am and I truly enjoyed it. Do some research and see what opportunities are out there and pursue them!

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