Helping People ‘Live For Now’

Spirit’s Promise Equine Rescue is hosting virtual programming led by founder and certified life coach Marisa Striano.

Beginning Wednesday, April 22, at 11 AM, Striano will host adult support group sessions through the Riverhead-based organization’s Equine For All initiative, which provides free and reduced equine recreation, therapy, services, and career development and placement for populations that otherwise would not have access to the equine industry. The support group will be followed by a virtual classroom for kids from noon to 12:30 PM, where Striano will introduce children to some of the farm animals on the grounds as she teaches about their traits and ways to care for them. Animals include horses, cows, donkeys, pigs, goats, turkeys, ducks, and chickens. Both classes will be conducted through Zoom.

Since 2011 the nonprofit has rescued horses that have been abused, neglected, or unwanted, and connects them to people who are in emotional trouble. With the horses taken care of, the focus has shifted to helping people.

“We need each other in some way,” Striano said. “It’s very difficult, especially for extroverted people that live alone.”

Equine For All at Blossom Hollow Ranch was able continue amid the COVID-19 pandemic thanks to donations from those who have ongoing support for equine therapy.

But that’s not all Striano is offering. She will connect with individuals interested in free life-coaching sessions. Thirty-minute time slots between 10 AM and 2 PM will be available every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday by phone.

“Right now, we’re grieving a loss of a life that we had,” Striano said. “But it’s gone. It’s like a sudden death of a life.”

Striano was certified 2018, and through special techniques, she asks questions, notices change in tone of voice, and gets people to open up. Once the novel coronavirus threat dissipates, Spirit’s Promise Equine Rescue plans to offer these services free to first responders.

“Don’t look to the future too much,” she said. “Forget about it. It’s uncertain. Just live for every day, be present and grounded. You’re living for right now.”

Register online at www.spiritspromiserescue.org, or learn more on Facebook @spiritspromiserescue Instagram @spiritspromise. You can also call 631-875-0433.

nicole@indyeastend.com