Since the Community Program began, our colleagues from Decorative Paints in Greece (Vivechrom) have played a very active role in their community.
One of their projects was to support the Therapeutic Riding Association of Greece (TRAG), which they helped to get started with some hands-on voluntary work. Every week they assist disabled riders in therapeutic sessions by putting them safely onto horses, then coaching and encouraging the children and the horses.
With support from the Community Program, veterinarian costs and regular transport costs were paid for. In 2007, the AkzoNobel volunteers again applied for support and were able to help paint the facilities which were badly in need of a facelift.
They also used the funds to purchase Murphy, a horse specially trained for carrying disabled children, giving them a unique experience of being able to ride a horse.
The horses that are selected for this purpose are generally quiet animals with a good character. Medium-small size horses are preferred for the convenience of the young riders but TRAG have some bigger horses for some of the taller riders. Six employees from Decorative Paints spend at least 3 hours per week assisting with training during the riding sessions, and more employees are expected to help out in the future.
Through the work began by these enthusiastic volunteers, TRAG received more attention and 3 or 4 other companies joined in to provide support. At the moment, some 80 children regularly ride the horses, assisted by many volunteers.
2008 was the last year in which support from the Community Program could be requested and final support is directed at the installation of special lighting equipment in order to provide late-afternoon riding sessions. A shelter for the tractor has also been constructed.
The foundations for future riding sessions were laid by the volunteers with support from the Community Program. With the enthusiasm of our volunteering employees, TRAG can continue their useful work for a long time to come.