We are thrilled to announce the recipient of the SENIA 2024 Honorary Outreach Scholarship: Horses Offering People Enrichment (H.O.P.E.). This prestigious award recognizes H.O.P.E.’s dedication to serving individuals with special needs in Beijing, China, through Equine-Assisted Services. H.O.P.E. will receive a scholarship amount of USD 500, a testament to their impactful work and unwavering commitment to the community.

H.O.P.E., a beacon of hope and healing, operates with a mission to enhance the lives of those with special needs through the unique and therapeutic power of horses. The organization relies on a dedicated team of nine full-time and part-time staff members, supported by an incredible network of over 300 volunteers each year. Together, they create a nurturing environment where individuals with special needs can experience growth, empowerment, and joy.

However, maintaining this invaluable service requires substantial resources. H.O.P.E. faces operational needs amounting to RMB 1.4 million annually. To continue providing these transformative services, H.O.P.E. urgently needs the support of the community to reach its fundraising goals.

Your contributions can make a profound difference. By donating to H.O.P.E., you help ensure that individuals with special needs in Beijing continue to receive the care and support they deserve. Your generosity will directly impact the lives of many, fostering an inclusive and compassionate community.

SENIA was proud to present H.O.P.E. with this year’s SENIA Honorary Outreach Scholarship on Jun 27 at the Dongfang Ma Hui Horse Riding Club in Shunyi.

To donate, visit H.O.P.E.’s website and contribute to a cause that truly makes a difference. Together, we can help H.O.P.E. continue its vital work and touch the lives of countless individuals in need.

Images: SENIA, H.O.P.E.

Source: China Global Television Network (CGTN)

Over December, we’ve been highlighting some of the organizations and people that give their time and skills to make our city a better place. Here’s a round-up of all the causes we’ve profiled, so if your New Year’s resolution is to give something back, you’ll find plenty of ideas for getting involved below.

To read the full interviews, follow the links below.

Horses Offering People Enrichment (HOPE)

Children love animals, whether it’s a family pet or the cuddly pandas at the zoo. For some children with disabilities, that love can help them to grow and develop in areas where they have difficulties. It’s called equine therapy, and it’s available in Beijing thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers. We talked to Amy Tripson about Horses Offering People Enrichment: HOPE. 

The Library Project

There are few things better to stimulate a child’s curiosity, creativity, and love of learning than a good book. For most of us, our kids grow up in homes full of bright, engaging reading material. But for many children in rural China, even their schools don’t have a library, or a place to sit and read independently. And that’s where The Library Project comes in. We talked to founder Tom Stader about their mission to turn unused classrooms into beautiful new reading rooms. 

The Lost Puppies of Beijing

In this series, we have mostly focused on those helping the people of this city, and particularly children in need. But our furry friends need our help too, and particularly the doggoes. So we talked to our friend and former beijingkids staffer Auna Harris about the kind souls behind The Lost Puppies of Beijing.

Fitness 4 Hope

In our busy urban lives, staying fit and active is important. Thanks to a team of enthusiastic volunteers, there are now opportunities to do this while helping a good cause too. We talked to Pablo Arriba about Fitness 4 Hope (F4H), the volunteering organization which he founded.

Bethel China

China has transformed beyond imagining over a couple of generations, modernizing and developing at a rate previously unseen in history. But in a few areas, old-fashioned ideas persist, and rarely with such sad consequences as in attitudes to disabled children. However, there are many, locals and foreigners, working hard to change attitudes and transform lives. We spoke to Allie Haaz, English-language spokesperson for Bethel China, to find out more about one such organization.

Migrant Children Foundation (MCF)

Christmas is always a time to think about children: our own and those in need. Few children are more in need than China’s so-called “migrant children,” who have come with their parents in search of a better life in the city, but have no right to education or other support here. And few have done more to help these innocents than the Migrant Children Foundation (MCF). We talked to Helen Boyle about the Foundation’s work.

Chemistry lessons provided by MCF won a national competition

Clothing Auction Network

New Zealander Rebecca Archer has been in Beijing since 2013, but it was an idea she brought from home which has taken off and is now set to expand across the world. We asked her to tell us more about the Clothing Auction Network.

Photos: courtesy of HOPE, Nichole He, courtesy of Auna Harris, courtesy of Fitness 4 Hope, courtesy of Allie Haaz, courtesy of MCF, Dave’s Studio, Rebecca Archer

Over the festive season, we’ll be highlighting some of the organizations and people that give their time and skills to make our city a better place, and looking at what you can do to support them. Spread the spirit of giving these holidays!

Children love animals, whether it’s a family pet or the cuddly pandas at the zoo. For some children with disabilities, that love can help them to grow and develop in areas where they have difficulties. It’s called equine therapy, and it’s available in Beijing thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers. We talked to Amy Tripson about Horses Offering People Enrichment: HOPE.

Amy Tripson

Tell us about the history of your organization. How did it start, how has it developed?

HOPE was founded in 2009 by Dr. Priscilla Lightsey, a physical therapist, with the goal of providing children with disabilities in China the opportunity to benefit from equine-assisted activities and therapies. HOPE has grown over the years and now serves participants five days a week with a herd of four horses, dozens of volunteers and two instructors.

What are you doing now, and what are your plans for the future?

HOPE serves individuals with disabilities, Chinese and expats, while pursuing professional international accreditation in therapeutic horsemanship (TH). HOPE continues to provide safe, effective and engaging lessons while promoting the professional standards needed for the TH industry in China and expanding our program to serve more individuals.

How can people get involved? What help do you need, and how can they contact you?

HOPE needs volunteers with a variety of skills. Volunteer opportunities include regularly assisting in lessons with the horses and children, attending outreach events or translating documents. There are many ways to help! We are always in awe of the unique ways that our volunteers give, coming up with creative ideas, so just let us know what you like to do and we’ll find a way that you can contribute to our organization. To learn more about volunteering at HOPE please contact our Assistant Program Director, Lucia Zhou, WeChat: HOPE-CHINA. Lucia will get you signed up for a Volunteer Orientation.

What makes your organization different or special?

HOPE is unique in that we recognize the healing properties of our equine partners. The relationship between a horse and a human can be powerful – and therapeutic. In addition to riding, participants learn to brush, groom, lead, and care for a horse. These activities may facilitate growth in a variety of areas – often much faster than in a clinical or academic setting. Not only do we see the benefits to our participants, but our volunteers are often greatly impacted by their experiences at HOPE. Come visit! Seeing the program in action enhances the understanding of what we do. Plus, it’s fun to see the smiles of the participants. We believe: Horses bring you HOPE!

Photos: courtesy of HOPE

Do you have an upcoming family-friendly event that you want to be included in our listings? Maximize the reach of your event and promote it on beijingkids’ social platforms!

Let us know by leaving your message in the comments section below or by emailing us at webeditor@beijing-kids.com. Follow us on WeChat (ID: beijing-kids) or join our family events WeChat group by sending us your WeChat QR code. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are canceled or scheduled as planned. For more events that may not be included in this list, please check our Events page. 

BSB Shunyi Summer Fayre, Jun 16

Come along for some summer fun at The British School of Beijing, Shunyi’s (BSB Shunyi’) Summer Fayre. This is one of the biggest events of the year at BSB Shunyi. Bring your friends and family along, it’s open to the whole Beijing community. Families can enjoy lunch, snack and drinks from our many food vendors, fun with games, water park, bouncy castles and enjoy visiting a variety of stalls indoors and outdoors. The Grand Charity Raffle will have many fantastic prizes to be won too. The charities supported are Migrant Children’s Foundation, Roundabout and Hope – Riding for Disabled Children. All ages. Free admission. 12-4pm. The British School of Beijing, Shunyi (BSB Shunyi)

Coaching and Coffee, Jun 14

Enjoy a morning of meaningful conversation with yourself and others in a session created just for moms to participate in positive psychology and mindfulness activities. Certified Positive Psychology and Wellbeing Practitioner, Siana Braganza will be showing moms how to let go of the “roles” they play; mother, partner, and daughter to support reconnecting with oneself. Adults. RMB 100. 11am-1pm. (WeChat: sianalynn) Moleskin – Yard 19, Sanlitun Road, S2 OF Taikoo Li.

Youth Flea Market

That’s Mandarin are hosting a Youth Flea Market, where you will find all your favorite local vendors selling beautifully handcrafted products, such as jewelry, jams, vintage clothing, and more. This is one for the not-so-little ones in your life; get the older kids out to enjoy their youth and all this flea market has to offer! Young Adults. Free. 5-9pm. That’s Mandarin – Dongzhimenwai 东直门外 1/F, Office Bldg B, Xinzhong Yuan, Xinzhong Jie Dongcheng District 东城区 新中街新中园写字楼B座1层

Romeo et Juliette, Jun 9 to Jun 23

This musical version of Shakespeare’s classic tale of love and loss is brought to life in French. Audiences have raved about the beautiful score, luxurious set design, and powerful performances. All ages. RMB 180-480 (buy tickets here). 2.30pm, or 7.30pm. Century Theater.

“A Night to Remember” Charity Concert, Jun 14

Daystar Academy, the Ivy Schools, and the Four Seasons Hotel Beijing join together for a charity evening cocktail reception… filled with a cappella magic! In their first-ever China tour, Harvard University’s all-female ensemble, the Radcliffe Pitches, and their brother group the Harvard Krokodiloes are providing a one-night-only evening of entertainment to captivate your heart and imagination. There will also be a silent auction, with proceeds going to Dew Drops Little Flowers and Educating Girls of Rural China. Treat yourself to an unforgettable evening while making a difference in someone’s life. All ages. RMB 688 per ticket (register here). Note that children aged 6 and above need a ticket. Ages below 6 can sit on parent’s lap. 7-9pm. Four Seasons Hotel Beijing. (186 0120 6155, jaw@daystarchina.cn)

Ownmade Indoor Composting Workshop, Jun 15

If, like most of us, your home in Beijing is an apartment with no garden, you may think that composting isn’t for you. This workshop will get you thinking again, as Dan from HomeGrown School shows you how you can turn your kitchen waste into rich fertilizer, even if you live on the thirtieth floor. The price includes an Ownmade Indoor Composting System. All ages. RMB 388. 9am-11am. Mammolina Children’s Home Model Montessori Kindergarten, 36 Maquanying Siqu, Xiangjiang Beilu, Chaoyang District. 

Night With the Dinosaurs, date changed to Jun 15

Explore the museum at night with Chinese Academy of Science paleozoologist Dr. Tom Stidham as your guide. With exclusive access to the museum’s exhibits after hours, you’ll get to spend the night in tents with cool dinosaur skeletons on display. Just let your imagination go wild. Awesome activities include making dinosaur t-shirts, watching a 3D movie, and even excavating your own trilobite fossil. Age 4+. RMB 580/Chaperon, RMB 680/Child. 6pm Jun 15-9am Jun 16. Paleozoological Museum of China. (1560 1647 912 Xiaofei, or 1500 1371 016 Katie)

The Wizard of Oz, Jun 13 to 30

“We’re off to see the Wizard, the wonderful Wizard of Oz…” And you could be too, if you get down to the Tianqiao Performing Arts Center later this month. This is a revived and refreshed version of the stage musical, sure to delight all who love the classic film, and youngsters who are new to the story. Performed in English with Chinese subtitles. All ages. RMB 280-1080. 7.30pm, Sat-Sun 2.30pm matinee. Tianqiao Performing Arts Center. Bldg 9, Tianqiao South Street, Xicheng District. (400-635-3355) www.247tickets.com/t/broadway-classic-musical-the-wizard-of-oz. 西城区天桥南大街9号楼.

Deepen Your Relationships: Workshops for Couples and Families, Jun 15

Professional coaches Virginie Mangin and Eike Westerholt are holding a workshop on dealing with challenges in relationships. Participants will be able to explore concrete tools for effective communication, conflict resolution, and addressing needs in a non-assertive way.

Adults. RMB 350 per session. 10am-12.30pm. The Bookworm – Courtyard 4, Gongti Beilu Chaoyang District. (eike@eikewesterholt.com, info@beyondcoaching.me) 朝阳区 工体北路4号院

Little Kickers Super Daddy Football Tournament, Jun 16

It’s time for all Little Kickers Daddies to show off their skills and teach their children their own unique game play. This Father’s Day, instead of standing and cheering from the sidelines, it is their chance to make their children proud and show all Little Kickers their ambition and courage on the field. All ages. RMB 299/Family. Register Date: May 24-Jun 14. 8.30am-12 noon. More info check this page. Beijing Side Park – No.9 Jiangtai West Road, Chaoyang District.

Photos: courtesy of event organizers

Horses Offering People Enrichment (HOPE), a Beijing-based non-profit provides horse therapy for children and adults with special needs. HOPE opened in Beijing in 2009 and currently houses three therapy horses which they care for and with which students interact. On May 28th from 10am-3.30pm at the Roundabout Community Centre in Shine Hills, HOPE will be hosting their first fundraising art auction to help cover the cost of stable rental, horse medical fees, equipment, training, and new horses.

The event will feature supervised arts and crafts for kids, and a Tai Chi demonstration for adults and anyone else that may be interested. The items to be auctioned off have not been completely finalized, but may include such works as Tibetan Tangka paintings or photographs and photo books. For those who wish to make a donation but cannot attend the auction, maximum bids (or simply donations) can be made via WeChat (150 11547338) or through the HOPE Paypal account. HOPE will also be hosting a second auction at the compound where the organization’s stables are located, Grassetown Compound, on June 3rd.

HOPE provides sessions to individuals ages four and older, sometimes making exceptions for children as young as three years old. HOPE’s website states that horse therapy can help to people with a range of disabilities including those with “cerebral palsy, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Sensory Integration Disorder (SID), as well as those with no specific physical disabilities but with global development delays.”

For those interested in becoming more involved in HOPE outside of attending the auction, the organization has volunteer opportunities. Jacqueline Chen, whose son has been participating in horse therapy at HOPE for years, volunteers at HOPE and is helping to organize the auction. Chen mentioned that international schools and local students have also gotten involved as volunteers at HOPE. “Currently, a student from WAB is designing and creating a sound activation system to be used with the orphans from Bethel, who are blind and/or visually impaired. We also have volunteers helping with administration, including translating documents and the HOPE website.” Other volunteer opportunities include walking alongside horses to ensure a child’s safety during their sessions, helping instructors prepare the area prior to a training session, and providing assistance with horse grooming. No experience with horses is required.

Horses Offering People Enrichment (HOPE) Therapy sessions by appointment. Grassetown Compound (East Side of Wenyu River) hopebeijingchina@gmail.com, WeChat: 150 11547338 北京市顺义区格拉斯小镇马场 (温榆河以东).

Photos: courtesy of HOPE