Gentle Carousel Greece, a branch of a Florida-based charity, is bringing joy and therapeutic support to vulnerable communities in Athens using a team of miniature horses. These diminutive equines, standing just 75 centimeters tall, visit schools, care homes, hospitals, and other facilities, offering a unique form of comfort and connection to children with special needs, the elderly, and individuals facing mental health challenges. Founder Mina Karagianni, an interior designer and architect, established the Greek branch in 2014 and personally funds the operation, relying on her day job to cover the costs associated with caring for the nine horses. These include six American miniature horses provided by the US parent charity, one born in Greece, and two rescued ponies named Billy and Giselle. The charity’s mission is to provide psychological support and alleviate stress through animal-assisted therapy, witnessing tangible positive results in those they serve.
The miniature horses undergo two years of specialized training to prepare them for their therapeutic roles. This training ensures they are comfortable interacting with vulnerable individuals in various settings and can effectively provide emotional support. One example of their work involves visits to an adult psychiatric care home. Omiros, a 12-year-old miniature stallion, travels in a modified van originally designed for disabled passengers, a perfect fit for his small stature. Upon arrival, he quickly connects with the residents, offering moments of calm and tenderness. Staff members, like social worker and center manager Alex Krokidas, recognize the value of animal-assisted therapy in soothing and comforting residents, reducing anxiety, and fostering a sense of connection. Residents themselves express profound appreciation for the visits, describing the horses’ presence as bringing joy and a sense of peace.
The impact of the miniature horses extends beyond psychiatric care homes, reaching children with special needs as well. Ivi and Calypso, two of the therapy horses, visit a special needs school, bringing smiles and excitement to the students. Nine-year-old Josifina Topa Mazuch, using her wheelchair, interacts with the horses, creating a cherished memory. Teachers observe the immediate positive effects, witnessing increased engagement, socialization, and physical activity among the children. The horses provide a catalyst for interaction, encouraging students to connect with both the animals and each other. This demonstrates the versatility of animal-assisted therapy and its ability to benefit diverse populations.
Despite the evident positive impact of Gentle Carousel Greece, the charity faces significant financial challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic forced the closure of Karagianni’s cafe, a vital source of income that supported the horses’ care. The cafe, which also hosted children’s parties and baptisms, provided funds for bedding, specialized food, veterinary care, and other essential expenses. Its closure, coupled with Karagianni’s personal health issues, has created a severe financial strain. The charity experienced utility shut-offs due to unpaid bills, relying on the kindness of neighbors to provide water for the animals. Although the utilities have been restored, substantial debts remain, and efforts to secure funding from companies and institutions have been unsuccessful.
The financial difficulties threaten the continuation of Gentle Carousel Greece’s vital work. While Karagianni finds immense satisfaction in the joy the horses bring, the financial burden is overwhelming. The charity urgently needs support to ensure its long-term sustainability. Karagianni’s primary wish is to secure funding that would allow her to expand the team and enhance the charity’s reach and impact. Without financial assistance, the future of this valuable service, bringing comfort and connection to vulnerable individuals, remains uncertain.
The story of Gentle Carousel Greece highlights the power of animal-assisted therapy and the dedication of individuals like Mina Karagianni who strive to make a difference in their communities. The miniature horses offer a unique form of support, fostering positive emotional connections and improving the well-being of those they visit. However, the charity’s financial struggles underscore the need for greater support for organizations providing these essential services. The future of Gentle Carousel Greece and its mission to spread joy and therapeutic support depends on finding sustainable funding to ensure the continued care of the horses and the continuation of their valuable work.
