Brandon Kathman For Immediate Release:
District Executive 7/5/2022
(947) 886-5736
Scout plans project at therapeutic riding center
Local scout Vivien Burke of Troop 185 aims to renovate the viewing room at O.A.T.S. (Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles), a nonprofit equestrian center located in Ortonville, to fulfill her last requirement for the rank of Eagle Scout.
O.A.T.S. offers alternative therapy through the healing power of horses for special needs children and adults, disabled veterans, and youth campers. Their facility spans 40 acres and offers year-round programming for those they serve. According to Burke, she has volunteered as a horse guide for O.A.T.S. several times, and her cousin received therapy through their programs.
“This project will help O.A.T.S. for years to come, providing a welcoming space for parents to watch their kids, volunteers to relax, or even help clients decompress if they get overwhelmed,” Burke said. “My hope for this Eagle Project is to help people in the community for years to come.”
The viewing room presently fulfills multiple functions, serving also as a family gathering area and volunteer break room. With many years of intense use having taken a toll, Burke endeavors to make the room warm and inviting. After removing the old furniture, she will give the space a deep clean and paint the walls to match the O.A.T.S. color scheme. The prospective Eagle will also install new flooring and furnishings, including sensory games and activities tailored for O.A.T.S.’ many autistic riders.
“It will benefit so many people here at O.A.T.S.,” Doug Rohrabaugh, the center’s executive director, said. “The Scouting community has been very kind to O.A.T.S. throughout the years and we are happy to continue to have scouts here at the farm.”
Burke seeks to raise at least $2,000 for this renovation and is also looking for potential partners. Michael Keene of M&K Floors in Oxford has pledged materials and labor to refurbish the floors of the viewing room.
“It would be great to find someone to partner to paint, so it looks professional and not like a bunch of kids did it… to donate new furniture that is comfy but has a material that won’t collect dust,” Burke said. “The lighting could use some help, as it’s kind of dark in there.”
Those interested in supporting Burke’s project can mail checks payable to “Troop 185” to the treasurer at 5724 Shannon Lane, Clarkston, MI 48348, noting “Vivien Burke Eagle Project” on the memo line. For other ways to donate (online, partnerships, etc.), call 248-843-9386.