Easterseals Massachusetts Unveils First‑of‑Its‑Kind Adaptive Carriage Driving Program at The Bridge Center

Easterseals Massachusetts hosted a ribbon‑cutting ceremony on Thursday, June 18, to celebrate the launch of its groundbreaking Adaptive Carriage Driving Program, featuring a custom‑designed adaptive carriage, the first in the United States capable of accommodating both power wheelchairs and multiple seating configurations.

The event brought together community members, state leaders, donors, and program participants for live demonstrations and a firsthand look at how this innovation expands access to equine‑assisted activities for individuals with disabilities.

A Milestone for Accessibility and Participation

Easterseals Massachusetts President & CEO Paul Medeiros welcomed attendees and emphasized the significance of the new program. “Our mission is to provide services to ensure that children and adults with disabilities have equal opportunities to live, learn, work, and play, and this carriage is another step in removing barriers for people who want to participate in adaptive driving. We used to be able to accommodate about 90% of riders; now we can accommodate 100%.”

State Senator Bill Driscoll, Jr., and State Representative Dennis Gallagher presented official citations recognizing the impact of Easterseals’ work at the Equestrian Center.

Senator Driscoll shared, “The work they do here is so important and truly one‑of‑a‑kind for this area. This adaptive carriage program will benefit individuals of all ages and abilities and give them the chance to experience meaningful horsemanship.”

Representative Gallagher added, “Whatever I can do to help this organization in Bridgewater or across the state, I always will. I’ll continue working to support this facility and help it remain a state‑of‑the‑art resource for the region.”

Bridgewater Town Manager Justin Casanova‑Davis also spoke, highlighting the town’s commitment to expanding access and supporting community programs that serve residents of all abilities.

Donor Support Makes Innovation Possible

The adaptive carriage was funded through generous contributions from Bridgewater State University and CNT Depository, Inc.

Bridgewater State University President Frederick Clark, Jr., Esq. spoke about the university’s commitment to supporting programs that expand opportunities for individuals with disabilities and reflected on the importance of creating environments where everyone can participate fully.

Danielle Oliari, COO of CNT Depository, Inc., spoke about her family’s connection to Bridgewater and their dedication to supporting programs that strengthen the community and create meaningful opportunities for participants at the Equestrian Center.

A Participant’s Perspective

Program participant and volunteer Aubrie Galinis shared how her involvement at The Bridge Center has shaped her confidence, sense of belonging, and connection to the horses. She expressed gratitude for the new adaptive carriage and the expanded opportunities it creates for equestrians like her.

A Demonstration of What’s Now Possible

Cindy Conquest, Director of the Equestrian Center and Community Engagement, provided a detailed demonstration of how the adaptive carriage operates, including lowering the carriage, rolling in a power wheelchair, and hitching up Norwegian Fjord gelding Neil.

Attendees were then invited to take a ride to experience the carriage firsthand. Conquest also explained the carriage’s unique design, its Canadian manufacturer, and the extensive research that led to the selection of a model capable of serving riders with a wide range of mobility needs.

ABOUT THE ADAPTIVE CARRIAGE DRIVING PROGRAM

The new program expands Easterseals Massachusetts’ Equine‑Assisted Services by offering:

• Access for individuals who use power wheelchairs
• Multiple adaptive seating options
• Opportunities for carriage driving, horsemanship, and mobility experiences
• A barrier‑free way for participants to engage with horses and the outdoors

This innovation ensures that every participant, regardless of mobility level, can experience the joy, confidence, and benefits of working with horses.