"These programs have helped instill confidence and trust in our participating youth. The facilitator is patient, kind, creative and has a calm manner while encouraging participants. Red Horse Connection has created meaningful Indigenous infused lessons to begin each session as well as debriefing activities following work with horses. While Indigenously infused, these programs would benefit Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth alike. Our centre continues to participate in this program and would recommend to others".
- L. Hart, Indigenous Cultural Coordinator, Knowles Center Inc.
"My family participated in “To the beat of our drum family program” that was facilitated by Tressa Beaulieu and her wonderful assistants, Allie and Sadie. Her welcoming energy and smile made us all feel at ease and encouraged us to share and contribute to our weekly discussions. Her diverse topics made us think deeper and not just assume each other’s feelings. Many things were shared/discussed over the four weeks. Some things we already knew about each other, while other topics made us realized how different we are and how unique we are as individuals and as a family. Tressa quoted once “There’s only one of you and only one family like yours”. It reminded us how important and special that is and how that should be embraced and celebrated! The horses aided in the non-judgmental environment that Tressa’s created in the barn – they truly are such majestic creatures that can reach your emotional and spiritual spirit without speaking. Their being is healing on levels most cannot comprehend!
As parents, you’re often wondering if what you’re providing your children and family core is enough to carry them/us through tough times or difficult situations we will encounter. You worry if they will be able to thrive and grow into polite, respectful, strong and responsible adults. The discussion were deeper than the regular daily ones we usually have and often continued for most of the long drive home. These discussions and Tressa’s positive comments reassured us that as a family, although we do struggle at times, really do have a strong core connection and see the importance in working towards keeping that strong.
In today’s world, life tends to be busy. Always running from one activity to the next all while trying to juggle jobs, school, yard work and maintain relationships with your extended family and friends. This helped us carve time for us. Time to spend quality time together without any distractions. This program comes highly recommended in our opinion".
- N. Saurette, Mother
"Our family participated in the To the Beat of the Drum programme with Tressa and her horses. The discussions and activities each week helped our family grow and deepen our bond. Working with the horses was so impactful. They were incredible teachers that encouraged us to slow down, communicate clearly and build trust with each other. The weekly sessions allowed us to work through obstacles calmly and to communicate more clearly when problem-solving. We have now transferred those skills into our everyday lives. As a family, we can say: “How would Sadie, Penny or Allie react in this situation?” or “Let’s be like the horses and not hold on to this. Let’s let it go.”.
Our children also loved watching the horses interact with each other and learning about equine behaviour and body language. This programme is unique and powerful. It is centred around the relational worldview that we are interconnected. As a Métis family, it was very special to participate in a programme based on respect, reciprocity, responsibility and relationships with a Métis facilitator. It was an experience that has created memories and lessons that our family will collectively cherish."
Merci beaucoup/Thank you Tressa, Sadie, Penny and Allie.
- Reynold's Family
"Tressa's program included lessons in communication, inter/intrapersonal skill development, traditional teachings, and so much more. Working with the horses was invaluable experience that covered a range of skills and created a culturally relevant space for participants. As a facilitator, Tressa has a calm demeanor that allows participants to feel safe working with horses regardless of previous experience.
Tressa worked with me to develop a session that met our program's needs. Her adaptability makes her program a great fit for a variety of organizations including youth groups, cultural groups, or for team building events/opportunities to learn about reconciliation."
- Emily Erickson (she/her), Instructor - Social Innovation and Community Development, Ka Ni Kanichihk Inc.