March 20, 2016: A select group of local at-risk girls were given the chance to break out of their shells and take part in weekly horseback riding and exercises. Seven girls took part in the program hosted by nonprofit organizations Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara and Hearts Therapeutic, which concluded Thursday during a riding session at the Hearts Therapeutic Equestrian Center in Goleta. The therapy sessions have helped improve riders’ patience and concentration, as well as helping them feel safe and build their emotional control, said Daniella Alkobi, program spokeswoman.
