COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – At Iowa Western Community College, our faculty members have always led by example, not only in the classroom but also in giving back to the community. One such example includes Ronald ‘Bud’ Schmidt, a construction technology instructor at IWCC, who has been personally impacted by an organization called HETRA (Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy). For the past several years, he and his grandson Nikola have benefited from the therapeutic riding sessions that HETRA provides. Nikola was born with a rare genetic mutation, the only combination in the world, which has caused multiple medical conditions including seizures and a muscular disorder called hypotonia.
Now, Schmidt is paying it forward, bringing his construction skills and his students’ expertise to the table to help build horse barns for the very organization that has made a difference in his family’s life.
Since 2019, Nikola has been a participant at HETRA, where equine therapy has dramatically improved his core strength, balance, mobility, and even his functional communication. HETRA’s program has helped him progress in daily activities like eating, speaking, and managing sensory issues. His mother and grandfather have witnessed firsthand how much therapeutic riding can boost Nikola’s independence and overall well-being.
Nikola’s mom, Alexie Herrmann, said, “Nikola has often seen his greatest growth at HETRA. The therapy is extremely effective. Most important to Nikola though is that it’s fun and he feels cared for! He’s received consistent treatment and loves coming for therapy. Unfortunately, insurance doesn’t pay for this type of therapy, but HETRA always ensures we can participate!”
Grateful for HETRA’s support, Schmidt wanted to give back. He began volunteering his construction skills for various projects around HETRA’s campus. In addition, he has included Iowa Western students in these initiatives, allowing them to gain valuable hands-on experience while giving back to the community. Their most recent project involved building three smaller miniature horse shelters for the tiny horses at HETRA, funded by a grant. These structures were designed and built in a component fashion by high school students in Iowa Western’s shop, then assembled on-site by traditional college students.
“We’ve used these projects to learn valuable lessons about various construction types and techniques. In our lecture course, we discuss component housing, where the entire structure is built in a factory, shipped to the job site, and then assembled,” said Schmidt. “Since our course focuses on Construction Management, we emphasize the importance of communication, especially when dealing with the public or clients. Our work at HETRA also demonstrates how each of us can use our skills to benefit the community.”
HETRA has been a beacon of hope for many families. Originally starting with just one participant, one horse, and three volunteers, HETRA has grown into a vital resource, serving over 150 participants each week. The organization offers therapeutic riding for children and adults with a range of disabilities, from cerebral palsy to autism and strokes, improving their physical and emotional well-being through equine-assisted activities.
Each year, HETRA volunteers contribute over 26,000 hours to keep the program running smoothly. Families also contribute their time and resources to support the program.
As HETRA continues its mission of helping individuals of all ability levels, Schmidt and his students are proud to be part of that journey. Their contribution in building these shelters is just one way Iowa Western Community College is making a difference in the community—one project at a time.
You can help donate to Nikola’s campaign here or learn more information about the mission of HETRA.