My Account
The generosity of a local dance group resulted in a substantial donation to North Shore Riding for the Disabled (RDA), based in Silverdale, last week.
Creative Dance Orewa has held a fundraising performance every year since its formation in 1996. The latest one, on April 10, saw 158 of its members, aged from two years to adults, perform for an audience of around 300. It was standing room only for the show, at Orewa Community Hall and $1730 was raised.
Among the hip hop performers was 11-year-old Orewa College student Ashling Collins, who has a rare neuromuscular condition called Escobar syndrome and also rides at RDA.
Ashling’s mother, Caroline, says six years of horse riding at RDA has improved her daughter’s strength, posture and confidence. Her happiness when sitting on the horse shines through and Caroline says Ashling rarely misses her weekly ride.
She has been dancing with Creative Dance for two years, which has not only been fun but also great for her fitness.
Ashling’s connection with both organisations made her the ideal choice to present the money to RDA, which she did on Tuesday, April 30.
Ashling has also been nominated for RDA Horse Rider of the Year.
North Shore Riding for the Disabled is always on the lookout for volunteers. Info: www.northshorerda.org/
