Enchanted Forest Prom 2024: A Magical Night with Rare Horses and Community Connection

The 2024 Enchanted Forest Prom featured a day of dancing, food, prizes and horses.

The annual event provided a unique experience for residents from Stoddard, New Madrid, Dunklin, Scott and Pemiscot counties to dress up and have fun.

The adult prom was sponsored by Family Matters Adult Day Center on Oct. 17 at the Lair Event Center in Dexter.

Hearts with Hooves, Inc. provided Equine Assisted Activities with a very rare Gypsy Varner horse.

The rare horses offered an opportunity to connect through non-verbal communication in a non-threatening way before, during, and after the prom, according to organizers.

Scientific studies indicate horses assist in teaching non-verbal social cues for individuals uncomfortable with making eye contact or may have challenges around basic communication and self-expression.

It was learned horse-based activities develop cognitive and language skills. The strong, natural bond between horse and human inspires attention and encourages focus.

Family Matters Day Center provides job readiness and life enrichment training for adult individuals with special needs. They focus on providing activities and training to maintain essential skills needed to lead rich, independent lives.