Westonwood Ranch hosts Professional Rodeo to benefit new learning program for individuals with autism
“Westonwood Ranch Charity Rodeo”
Westonwood Ranch is a 501c(3), not-for-profit organization located in Freeport, Florida that is designed to teach job skills and functional life skills training to individuals affected by autism and related developmental disorders. The professionally sanctioned rodeo presented by Walton County Sheriff’s Department will take place Friday, March 23rd from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday, March 24th from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Freeport Regional Sports Complex.
The Professional Cowboy Association’s biggest superstars will be competing in Bareback Bronc Riding, Calf Roping, Saddle Bronc Riding, Steer Wrestling, Break-A-Way Roping, Ladies Barrel Racing, Team Roping, and Bull Riding. Local food vendors including The Big Red Truck, Café Rico, and Kona Ice will be present along with a children’s bounce and play area, a mechanical bull and more.
Westonwood Ranch was founded in 2017 by the Wood Family. Inspired by their 7 year old son Weston, who was diagnosed with severe autism at the age of 2, the pre-planned learning program for individuals with developmental disorders will be unlike anything in the Florida Panhandle. Its unique curriculum was formed with much influence from Emerald Coast Autism Center, who also had concerns about the “next step” for their growing population of students.
“It seems logical that a holistic program such as this take place in a calm, quiet therapeutic environment like a farm,” says Lindy Wood, mother of Weston. “There are so many avenues for hands on learning without the social pressures.” Program participants will have the opportunity to participate in activities to identify their strengths, skills, talents, interest and learn how that skill acquisition will translate to work.
The basis of the program design revolves around the creation of self-sustaining small business enterprises. The diverse learning curriculum at Westonwood Ranch will include aquaponic farming, landscape gardening and maintenance, ranch maintenance, animal husbandry and culinary skills. A commercial scale aquaponic greenhouse will be among the first enterprises implemented on the ranch. The enriched extra-curricular activities include equine assisted therapy, art instruction, wood-making, creative fitness initiatives and dance classes in the fitness center, and nature hikes. Although the day skills training program will be geared towards older youth, many of the extracurricular groups will be available to young children in the form of “after school” programs and summer programming.
“We are so appreciative of Walton County Sheriff, Michael Adkinson Jr., and his entire department for all of their assistance and commitment to our mission,” says Lindy Wood. “We hope to continue to make this program a true community endeavor.” Westonwood Ranch is seeking additional business sponsorships for this event. To find out ways to support this event , please email info@westonwood.org.
Date and Time
Friday Mar 23, 2018 Saturday Mar 24, 2018
