News
Big thanks to Polk County Community Foundation!
The Foothills Equestrian Nature Center would like to extend a huge thank you to the Polk County Community Foundation for their never ending support. As a non-profit organization, FENCE relies heavily on support from the community. When COVID hit the nation, so many community members, organizations, businesses, and more were negatively impacted by the pandemic, FENCE included. With loss of proceeds from many of our large events, FENCE struggled along with many in our tight knit community. Trudging along, FENCE vowed to keep their property open to allow community members to safely enjoy the great outdoors. Though we are not out of the woods with COVID and many are still feeling the effects of this greatly, we feel blessed to have this community. During the Pandemic, Polk County Community Foundation was able to graciously provide monetary assistance to FENCE during these unprecedented times. FENCE staff, board, volunteers, and visitors sincerely thank the Foundation for their constant support and encouragement!
Therapeutic Riding of Tryon (TROT)
The therapeutic riding program at FENCE, will begin its ten week fall session on September 14, 2020 with a modified program that will include limited individual lessons and special events for all students. Even with limited operations planned, we need your support! If you are interested in becoming a TROT volunteer, training will be offered and conducted via ZOOM on Wednesday, August 26th at 2 pm and Thursday, August 27th at 11 am. Please email trotvolunteer@fence.org and a link to the online training will be sent to you. Please specify which training day you would like to attend. There will be socially distanced orientation in the covered arena prior to September 14 that you will sign up for after training. Many thanks to all the great volunteers and horses that have been part of TROT since our founding in 2004!!
Stuff to do during COVID-19 with your children!
Our hearts go out to the families struggling during these difficult times. In particular, the challenges faced as a result of school closings. FENCE will continue to do what we can to support WNC and its students and families during this event. Our trails remain open, and we encourage families to utilize the outdoors as an opportunity for social distancing. Below are several self-guided activities aimed at engaging children in the safety of their own backyard or here on the trails at FENCE. We have also included educational resource links such as virtual field trips to national parks and other community resources. Feel free to comment if you are interested in seeing similar resources and please share your experiences with us!
