SLIPPERY ROCK - Slippery Rock University seeks donations of older horses to offer riding lessons at its new Storm Harbor Equestrian Center.

Horses will be used to teach basic riding to children and adults who don't normally get riding opportunities.

"Put a child with cerebral palsy, blindness or Down syndrome on a horse and he gains a better sense of balance and awareness of his muscles, increasing self-esteem," said Nancy Banner, exercise science instructor and coordinator of equestrian education.

Horses should be sound, but older and calm with a gentle personality, she said. Their use will be monitored and non-demanding, with veterinary care provided.

Those interested in donating an animal should call 724-738-4924.

The 16,000-square-foot Storm Harbor facility opens this fall near N. Kerr Thompson Stadium. The building includes 12 horse stalls, an indoor riding arena, a fenced-in outside riding area, offices, a kitchen and restrooms.