The Sioux City facility has begun their sixth Special Troopers Adaptive Riding School (STARS) session, designed to positively impact adults with both mental and physical abilities using equines as the vehicle for change. The most recent participating residents were hand picked based on their repeat infractions while at the Dismas facility and their struggle once they leave the program. The three selected, according to Director Robyn Deacon, struggle with honesty, communications, accountability, the consequences of their actions, and self awareness. “This session is designed individually for them hoping we can see a difference this time and take something with them upon release,” Deacon said. “Each of these residents have been through our program more than once already. While the program normally uses horses, the mules work better because they are a bit more stubborn and were excellent tools in providing obstacles.”
