OUR PROGRAMS
Equine-Assisted Therapeutic Riding
Discover strength, confidence, independence, and joy through individualized therapeutic riding led by PATH International Certified Instructors.
What is Theraputic Riding?
Equine-Assisted Therapeutic Riding (EATR) is more than learning to ride a horse—it’s a carefully designed program that uses the movement of the horse to help children and adults with special needs build strength, balance, coordination, confidence, and independence. Every lesson is tailored to the individual goals of the rider and is led by PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors with the support of trained volunteers in a safe, encouraging environment.
At Rising Hope Farms, we believe every rider has unique abilities waiting to be discovered. Whether celebrating a first smile, improved balance, greater confidence, or a new friendship, each lesson is an opportunity for growth, achievement, and joy.
Who Can Benefit from Therapeutic Riding?
Rising Hope Farms welcomes children and adults with a variety of physical, cognitive, developmental, and emotional disabilities. Every prospective rider is evaluated individually to ensure Therapeutic Riding is safe, appropriate, and beneficial for their unique needs and goals.
Conditions that may benefit from Therapeutic Riding include:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Cerebral Palsy
- Down Syndrome
- Developmental Delays
- Intellectual Disabilities
- Neurological Conditions
- Genetic Disorders
- Sensory Processing Challenges
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Spina Bifida
- Physical disabilities affecting balance, strength, or mobility
- Other diagnoses considered individually
Please Note
Due to the high number of requests from riders whose disabilities prevent participation in other sports, Rising Hope Farms currently does not accept riders whose primary diagnosis is ADD or ADHD.
Please contact Rising Hope Farms with questions about eligibility. Every application is reviewed individually.
Why Horses?
The horse is an extraordinary teacher. Its rhythmic movement closely mirrors the natural movement of the human body, helping riders develop balance, posture, coordination, and core strength. At the same time, horses respond honestly to emotions, encouraging riders to build confidence, patience, communication, and trust.
Every interaction—whether riding, grooming, or simply spending time with a horse—creates opportunities for growth in ways that feel natural, enjoyable, and rewarding. For many riders, the horse becomes more than a partner; it becomes a source of encouragement, motivation, and friendship.
BENEFITS OF THERAPEUTIC RIDING
More Than Learning to Ride
Every lesson is designed to help riders grow physically, emotionally, socially, and mentally. While every rider’s journey is unique, these are some of the life-changing benefits families often experience.
💪 Strength & Independence
Therapeutic riding develops core strength while encouraging riders to become more independent both in and out of the saddle.
🧠 Confidence
Every achievement—big or small—helps riders believe in themselves and discover what they’re capable of.
❤️ Emotional Well-Being
Time with horses often reduces anxiety, increases motivation, and creates moments of joy that carry into everyday life.
Balance & Coordination
The horse’s natural movement strengthens a rider’s posture, balance, coordination, and overall body awareness.
💬 Communication
Lessons encourage listening, following directions, expressing thoughts, and building meaningful relationships.
Social Skills
Working with instructors, volunteers, and horses helps riders build friendships, teamwork, patience, and trust.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A Typical Lesson at Rising Hope Farms
Every lesson is carefully planned around the individual rider’s goals and abilities. While no two lessons are exactly alike, every rider is welcomed into a safe, encouraging environment where progress is celebrated and every success matters.
A typical lesson may include:
✓ Meeting the instructor and volunteers
✓ Grooming and preparing the horse
✓ Mounted riding activities designed around the rider’s goals
✓ Fun games and exercises that build strength, balance, confidence, and coordination
✓ Time to celebrate accomplishments and connect with both horses and friends
Our PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors work closely with trained volunteers to ensure every rider receives the support they need while encouraging independence and personal growth.
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Schedule Evaluation
We’ll contact you to arrange an evaluation and discuss class availability.
Ready to Get Started?
GETTING STARTED
Everything You Need To Know
We know starting something new can feel overwhelming. Here are answers to some of the questions families ask most often.
Who can participate?
Rising Hope Farms welcomes children and adults with a variety of physical, cognitive, developmental, and emotional challenges. Every prospective rider completes an initial assessment to ensure therapeutic riding is appropriate and to help us develop individualized goals.
Do riders need previous horse experience?
Not at all. Most of our riders have never been on a horse before. Our instructors and trained volunteers guide each rider through every step of the experience.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. Thanks to the generosity of donors, volunteers, grants, and community partners, Rising Hope Farms provides Equine-Assisted Therapeutic Riding at no cost to participating families.
What should riders wear?
Riders should wear long pants and closed-toe shoes with a small heel whenever possible. We recommend comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather. Riders are responsible for providing their own helmet. ALL riders MUST wear a helmet.
Are volunteers with every rider?
Yes. Depending on each rider’s needs, trained volunteers may serve as horse leaders and sidewalkers to ensure every lesson is safe, encouraging, and successful.
How do we get started?
Getting started is simple.
- Download the Rider Application and Physician’s Medical History & Examination Form from our website.
- The medical form must be completed and signed by the rider’s physician.
- Return the completed forms by mail, email, or bring them with you during a scheduled visit to the farm.
- Once the paperwork is received, we’ll schedule an assessment to get to know the rider, discuss goals, and determine the best placement within our therapeutic riding program.
- If accepted into the program, we’ll work with your family to schedule weekly lessons as openings become available.
Every Rider’s Journey Begins With Hope
We know taking the first step can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re exploring therapeutic riding for the first time or simply have questions, we’d love to talk with you and help determine if Rising Hope Farms is the right fit for your family.