FARGO — Horses aren’t just for riding. They’re helping people overcome challenges and improve their quality of life.

A local nonprofit with ties to North Dakota State University is sharing the therapeutic power of horses with the community.

“We think horses can help everybody,” said Jessica Bailey, program assistant with NDSU Bison Strides.

The program, called Bison Strides Equine Assisted Services, aims to improve the quality of life for veterans, people with disabilities and their caregivers.

“It builds strength, resiliency and independence,” said program director Erika Berg, who is also an associate professor in the NDSU Department of Animal Sciences. Students can minor in equine-assisted services and many volunteer with Bison Strides.

“That’s kind of a fun aspect of coming to scho

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