News

Horses, kids and sunshine bring neighbours
out for PWL Slave Lake 'rodeo'

June 5th, 2017

This is Points West Living Slave Lake’s second year hosting a hands-on ‘rodeo’ during Seniors’ Week. On June 7th, local horseman Sandy Williams brought five of his horses – and his four young children ages five to eleven – to give community seniors a chance to get up close with the animals and watch some rodeo skills. 

Amazing turnout

“We had such an amazing turnout this year,” says recreation coordinator Martine Carifelle. “Our neighbours from Vanderwell Lodge as well as Slave Lake Manor could not wait to come over this afternoon to pet the horses and watch the little kids ride and show off their roping skills.”

A teaching moment

The weather certainly cooperated with clear skies and a warm gentle breeze. “We offered the local seniors some cool refreshments and had some good laughs,” adds Martine. “Sandy’s son Kayden (aged 10) was showing a young girl how to do some roping, and the seniors thought it was so sweet to watch as he really concentrated on teaching her some new skills.”

First time on horseback

A handful of PWL Slave Lake employee care partners learned some new skills too. “Some had never even sat upon a horse before,” says Martine, “so I asked them if they wanted to try it and go for a little walk around the building. They were so excited to try it out and waved to our residents from atop their horses with amazing smiles and laughter.”

Already planning for next year

Martine says the event has become such a hit with Slave Lake seniors, she’s hoping to continue offering it every year, with added activities and rodeo style foods.

Photo: PWL Slave Lake residents and care partners mingle with neighbours and visitors around Pip the horse. Clockwise from front left: resident Caroline Yellowknee, recreation therapist Hannah (behind wheelchair); visitors in background, Pip the horse; resident Katherine Stasow (holding the reins); Vanderwell Lodge’s Jean Brochu (hand resting on Pip’s mane) and Shelly Hutchinson (at back); Visitor; PWL HCA recreation assistant Delaila Mesina, holding hands with resident Mary Cardinal.

More photos at Flickr: Horses, kids and sunshine bring out the neighbours for PWL Slave Lake ‘rodeo’